In the midst of rising global conflicts and tensions, Greece has made a provocative move against Turkey by actively planning measures to counter Turkish UAVs, reports the Turkish newspaper Yeni Akit Gazetesi.
The Turkish newspaper Yeni Akit Gzaetesi highlighted plans to establish a robust air defense shield over the Aegean Sea and Greek territories. It outlined Greece’s intention to acquire a range of systems from Israel, including advanced electronic warfare systems deployed in the Aegean. These systems are designed to accurately detect threats and disrupt communication of unmanned aerial vehicles, incorporating anti-drone capabilities from Israeli integrated systems.
Furthermore, the newspaper reported the operational deployment of an anti-drone system aboard the Psara frigate, which successfully disrupted communication between a Turkish UAV and its ground station, resulting in the UAV crashing into the sea during its operational debut last Sunday.
“The Athens government has already approved the next phase, which includes expanding the electronic warfare network to cover the Evros region, as well as the Southeastern Aegean islands and Crete. Plans are underway to further extend coverage to critical infrastructure inland. The Turkish Armed Forces currently operate satellite-guided UAVs such as Bayraktar and AKINCI. Greece, anticipating the launch of a military satellite fleet by 2025, is enhancing its capabilities in this domain.
“The report noted Israel’s development of systems capable of disrupting all communications, including satellite links, which has captured Athens’ interest. The renowned Iron Dome, known for its GPS disruption capabilities, similarly hinders UAV operations.
“Connecting the ‘dome’ to air defense systems remains a priority for Greece, aiming to enhance the network’s hard-kill capabilities. Various proposals are being evaluated, with expert teams seeking optimal solutions.”
“The use of high-cost missiles like the Patriot system’s MIM-104 or Aster-30-equipped frigates such as FDI contrasts sharply with the relative affordability of UAVs and drones, which cost mere hundreds or thousands of euros.
“Hence, Greece’s plans prioritize the creation of a cost-effective and efficient air defense system. Israel has made significant strides in this field, though the costs associated with the Iron Dome’s Tamir missiles, at approximately $40,000 per missile, pose considerable financial challenges for defense budgets when hundreds of missiles are expended daily.”
“Athens openly expresses interest in David’s Sling, a medium and long-range anti-aircraft missile system aimed at countering tactical ballistic missiles. However, any decision will require Greek defense industry participation to ensure returns on investment to the country.”
