Greece Seeks EU Funding for Acquisition of Israeli BARAK MX to Strengthen National Air Defense.

According to information published by Ekathimerini on July 29, 2025, the Greek government, led by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, has announced its intention to apply for a €1.2 billion loan under the European Union’s SAFE program to accelerate a broad range of defense modernization projects. This funding request is part of a new initiative known as “Achilles Shield,” aimed at bringing forward military programs originally scheduled for post-2030, marking a significant shift in Greece’s defense timeline. Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

The BARAK MX is an integrated air and missile defense system developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (Picture source: IAI)

The “Achilles Shield” initiative focuses primarily on enhancing the country’s air defense capabilities amid increasing regional security concerns. One of the systems under consideration is the BARAK MX, a medium-range air defense platform developed by Israel. Already deployed in Cyprus, the BARAK MX is viewed as a tested and interoperable option for strengthening Greek airspace security. Greece’s interest in this platform reflects a broader effort to integrate modern, combat-proven systems into its defense infrastructure.

The BARAK MX is an integrated air and missile defense system developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI). It offers comprehensive protection against a wide range of aerial threats and is built on a modular architecture that includes a battle management center (BMC), AESA multi-mission radars, and a unified land-based launcher. The system is capable of intercepting aircraft, helicopters, drones, cruise missiles, and glide bombs under various operational conditions. It employs three types of interceptors: MRAD (35 km), LRAD (70 km), and ER (150 km), all featuring active radar guidance, high maneuverability (up to 50 g), and vertical launch capabilities for 360-degree coverage.

The primary radar, the ELM-2084 from ELTA Systems, uses gallium nitride (GaN)-based AESA technology to simultaneously detect conventional and ballistic threats. With its mobile and adaptable design, the BARAK MX can be rapidly deployed and integrated into various command networks. It is suitable for both point and area defense missions, including joint force operations. Its modularity and forward-compatible design make it a relevant component for modern armed forces.

In parallel, Greece is also planning to acquire 36 Precise and Universal Launching System (PULS) multiple rocket launchers, also produced in Israel. The estimated cost of this acquisition is approximately €690 million. The PULS system is modular and capable of launching a variety of guided and unguided munitions, providing tactical flexibility and long-range strike capacity. Both the BARAK MX and PULS systems meet the eligibility requirements for financial support under the EU’s SAFE program, which is designed to enhance the collective defense capabilities of member states.

The plan to accelerate these acquisitions through EU-backed loans represents a shift in strategic posture by the Mitsotakis government, in response to evolving defense requirements. While the proposal still awaits formal submission and review in Brussels, it aligns with a broader pattern of EU member states leveraging the SAFE fund to modernize their military capabilities amid changing geopolitical conditions. Through the “Achilles Shield” initiative, Greece positions itself as an active contributor to NATO and EU defense frameworks, aiming to address critical capability gaps ahead of schedule.

The €1.2 billion loan request under the SAFE program reflects a strategic effort to fast-track national military modernization, particularly through the acquisition of Israel’s BARAK MX and PULS systems. These procurements, central to the “Achilles Shield” initiative, are intended to reinforce both national and regional security by equipping Greek forces with advanced systems well before their originally planned delivery timeline.