This proposal comes amid the security and financial guarantees offered by the United States despite the nuanced relationship between Greece and Turkey. The Greek government, previously hesitant to send significant air defence systems to Ukraine, views this move as a potential safeguard against regional threats, particularly from Turkey. The specifics of the guarantees from the U.S. remain undisclosed, but they may involve the provision of Patriot systems soon, drawing from the $61 billion support package designated for Ukraine.
The potential transfer has sparked debate within Greece, balancing national security concerns with the desire to support Ukraine against Russian aggression. Greek government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis emphasized Greece's commitment to retaining its deterrent capability and air defence, suggesting a cautious approach by the government.
Previous reports in December 2022 and March 2024 suggested Greece's readiness to transfer its S-300 air defence systems, as well as its Tor-M1 and Osa-AKM air defence systems, to Ukraine. However, Greece appears open only to exchanging its S-300PMU1 air defence missile systems for the American-made PATRIOT air defence systems, indicating the deal may concern the Greek S-300 systems rather than the Patriots.
The current Ukrainian demand for air defence systems arises from increased Russian aerial strikes on its cities and critical infrastructure. Ukraine has expressed the need for 25 Patriot systems to counter this threat. Responding to these needs, Germany has already transferred one Patriot system to Ukraine and is contemplating providing six additional batteries. Other countries, such as Sweden, are also exploring options to offer additional air defence support.
Ukrainian soldiers' combat experiences have highlighted the American Patriot air defence missile system's high efficiency in intercepting and destroying aerial threats launched by Russian forces against major Ukrainian cities. The Patriot system has demonstrated capability in intercepting even the latest generation of Russian missiles, including the Kh-47 Kinzhal hypersonic air-launched ballistic missile.
The Patriot systems, which consist of radars, engagement control stations, and launching stations, are designed to intercept and destroy various aerial threats simultaneously. Each system can manage up to 16 launching stations and engage up to 9 aerial targets simultaneously, making it a critical element of modern air defence.