Greece to purchase 38 Israeli PULS rocket launchers to strengthen border and island defenses.

According to OnAlert on December 5, 2024, Greece is in the final stages of approving the acquisition of 38 PULS (Precise & Universal Launching System) multiple rocket launcher systems, manufactured by Israel's Elbit Systems. Valued at approximately €500 million, the program is currently under review by the Greek Parliament and the Government Council for Foreign Affairs and Defence (KYSEA). The package includes the launchers, command batteries, a range of precision-guided missiles, as well as training and maintenance services.
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The Greek Ministry of National Defense initially considered modernizing its existing stock of 36 U.S.-made M270 MLRS systems, a plan ultimately abandoned in favor of acquiring new PULS systems, which offer extended combat capabilities. (Picture source: Elbit Systems)

The PULS multiple rocket launcher systems are planned for deployment in the Evros region and on major islands in the Eastern Aegean due to their strategic significance. The Evros region, which shares a border with Türkiye, has been a focal point for security and migration concerns, leading to reinforced border security measures such as the extension of border fences and increased patrols. The Eastern Aegean islands, situated near the Turkish coastline, are crucial for maritime monitoring and maintaining regional stability. These systems will enhance artillery units in these areas by providing rapid response capabilities and contributing to overall defense operations and territorial security.

The Greek Ministry of National Defense initially considered modernizing its existing stock of 36 U.S.-made M270 MLRS systems. Plans were approved in 2023 to upgrade 24 of these launchers for €1.81 billion. However, a reevaluation under Greece's 2024–2030 defense agenda led to a scaled-down modernization proposal for 12 units at a cost of €500 million. This plan was ultimately abandoned in favor of acquiring new PULS systems, which offer extended range capabilities and the option to integrate with Greece’s domestic defense industry. Proposals include the possibility of local production lines, supporting national manufacturing capabilities.

Greece and Israel have expanded their defense cooperation through multiple agreements and acquisitions. In April 2021, they signed a $1.65 billion agreement for the establishment and operation of a flight training center for the Hellenic Air Force by Israel's Elbit Systems over 22 years. This center will include 10 M-346 training aircraft, simulators, and logistical support. In May 2023, Israel Aerospace Industries acquired the Greek defense technology company Intracom Defense, strengthening industrial ties. Greece also procured Spike anti-tank missiles from Israel in a deal worth up to $400 million. As of November 2024, the two nations are negotiating a €2 billion deal for the development of an anti-aircraft and missile defense system similar to Israel’s Iron Dome, aligned with both Greece and Cyprus' ongoing military modernization efforts.

The PULS (Precise & Universal Launching System) offers several operational differences compared to the M270 MLRS, which have likely influenced Greece's decision to pursue its acquisition. The PULS supports a wider range of munitions, including 122mm, 160mm, 306mm, and 370mm rockets, each with varying ranges and warhead types, enabling use in diverse operational scenarios, whereas the M270 MLRS primarily employs 227mm rockets. The PULS is designed for rapid deployment and firing, with an execution time of approximately one minute, and is mounted on wheeled platforms such as IVECO trucks, enhancing mobility across various terrains. In contrast, the M270 MLRS utilizes a tracked chassis, offering different off-road capabilities but with potential trade-offs in speed and logistical requirements. Additionally, the PULS’s modular design allows integration with various command and control systems, simplifying maintenance and interoperability. These characteristics address Greece’s operational and budgetary needs, supporting its decision to pursue the PULS system.

Other countries have similarly adopted the PULS system. Denmark acquired eight units for $133 million, with all systems delivered by early 2024. The Netherlands signed a $305 million contract for 20 systems, with initial deliveries beginning in 2023. Spain’s SILAM program involves 16 PULS systems mounted on Iveco trucks, with a €576.5 million contract that includes missiles and training rockets. Thailand is also collaborating with Elbit Systems to develop a localized version of the system, and other countries such as the Philippines and Norway are considering procurement.

The PULS system is designed for rapid deployment and firing, with an execution time of approximately one minute. Mounted on mobile platforms, such as the IVECO trucks selected for Greece, the system is adaptable to various terrains. The PULS, an upgraded version of the Lynx, supports a range of missiles capable of striking targets at distances from 35 to 300 kilometers. Each launcher is equipped with two pods, which can carry up to 36 missiles in total.

The missile configurations include 18 Accular 122mm missiles with a range of up to 35 kilometers, 10 Accular 160mm missiles reaching 40 kilometers, 4 EXTRA missiles with a range of 150 kilometers, and 2 Predator Hawk missiles capable of 300 kilometers. The system also has the capability to launch the SkyStriker loitering munition, which has a range exceeding 100 kilometers, can be recovered if unused, and is deployable for reconnaissance and strike operations.