In a significant move to bolster regional security, Israel has committed to assisting Greece in developing advanced counter-drone technology to address the emerging threat of coordinated unmanned aerial and underwater vehicle swarms. This defense collaboration was announced following high-level talks in Athens between Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias and Israeli counterpart Israel Katz on Tuesday.
The strategic partnership builds upon the trilateral defense agreement established in December between Greece, Israel, and Cyprus, which already includes Israeli assistance in developing Greece’s air defense capabilities. Minister Dendias emphasized the critical nature of this cooperation, stating that both nations would ‘exchange views and expertise to counter unmanned platforms—specifically swarms of unmanned aerial vehicles and groups of unmanned underwater vehicles.’
Israeli Defense Minister Katz characterized the growing alliance as ‘an anchor of stability in the Mediterranean,’ highlighting its strategic importance beyond bilateral relations. The collaboration addresses a paradigm shift in modern warfare where drone swarms—typically employing numerous low-cost, coordinated craft—are increasingly deployed for reconnaissance, defensive operations, and overwhelming enemy systems.
The defense partnership unfolds against the backdrop of Greece’s ongoing maritime disputes with NATO ally Turkey concerning boundaries and offshore resources. Despite being NATO members, both nations remain locked in a long-standing confrontation that has prompted Greece to maintain one of Europe’s highest military expenditures relative to its economic size.
The December agreement established a comprehensive framework for joint military exercises, specialized operations training, and regular strategic consultations among the three Eastern Mediterranean nations. This trilateral cooperation emerged from discussions between national leaders focused on enhancing maritime security and advancing mutual energy initiatives in the region.