Greece to Launch “Iron Dome”-Style Defence System by 2026: A Three-Phase Plan

Greece is poised to significantly enhance its national security by developing an advanced anti-aircraft and anti-ballistic defence system inspired by Israel's renowned “Iron Dome.”

This ambitious project was the focal point of a recent Cabinet meeting, during which Defence Minister Nikos Dendias provided Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis with a comprehensive briefing on the plan’s timeline and progress.

A Three-Stage Development Programme

As reported by ERT, the Defence Minister, accompanied by the Chief of the Hellenic National Defence General Staff, outlined the three key phases of the project’s implementation:

1. Establishing Command and Structure
   The initial phase will focus on creating the necessary organisational framework. A new Transboundary Air Defence Command will be established to oversee the operational integration and coordination of anti-aircraft and anti-drone systems under the new defence shield.
2. International Procurement
   In the first half of 2025, Greece plans to launch an international tender, inviting proposals from leading defence contractors in France, Israel, the United Kingdom, and the United States. These submissions will be assessed to ensure that Greece secures state-of-the-art technology tailored to its specific defence needs.
3. Operational Deployment
   The final phase will involve the system’s operational deployment, which is expected to be fully realised by the summer of 2026. This stage will mark a significant milestone in Greece’s efforts to strengthen its defensive capabilities against aerial threats.

What Is the “Iron Dome”?

The Israeli “Iron Dome” is a cutting-edge missile defence system designed to intercept and neutralise short-range rockets and missiles with ranges between 4 and 70 kilometres. It is particularly adept at protecting populated areas from incoming projectiles. Operational since 27 March 2011, it successfully intercepted its first missile launched from Gaza just weeks later, on 7 April 2011.

A Strategic Leap in National Defence

Greece’s adoption of a similar system underscores the nation’s commitment to modernising its defence capabilities in response to evolving security challenges. The anti-aircraft dome aims to safeguard Greek airspace from a range of aerial threats, ensuring the protection of both its citizens and critical infrastructure.

Prime Minister Mitsotakis has highlighted the strategic importance of this initiative, which aligns with Greece’s broader defence and security objectives in an increasingly dynamic geopolitical environment.

As the project advances, the development of an “Iron Dome”-style defence system will position Greece as a key player in regional security while reinforcing its defence partnerships with international allies.