Greece and Israel have signed a €3 billion ($3.5 billion) defence agreement in Tel Aviv under which Israel will deliver a multi-layered air defence system known as the Achilles Shield, described as the largest defence deal ever between the two countries. The package includes Rafael’s David’s Sling and SPYDER systems, Israel Aerospace Industries’ BARAK MX, multi-mission radars for air surveillance and an artificial intelligence-enabled command-and-control centre, plus a supplementary €26 million ($30 million) deal for Drone Dome anti-drone systems. Negotiated over three years, the system will be delivered in stages and is scheduled to reach full operational readiness within 35 months. The purchase forms part of Athens’ plan to spend about €28 billion ($32 billion) by 2036 on military modernisation, including up to 40 U.S. F-35 fighter jets and frigates from France and Italy, with expanded Israeli technology transfers to Greek industry. Analysts link the timing to regional security concerns, including risks tied to conflict involving Iran and U.S. bases hosted in Greece, as well as Turkey’s growing drone capabilities and long-running Aegean maritime disputes, with first elements expected in the Aegean. Turkey had not immediately reacted, while the closer Greece-Israel defence relationship has drawn domestic criticism in Greece.