Can Turkey Capture a Greek Island with Helicopters and Commandos?

The operation to occupy a Greek island by Turkey via helicopters and special forces (commandos) is a military scenario that is analyzed on a theoretical level by analysts, but in practice presents serious difficulties and risks.

The Greek islands are equipped with modern air defense systems, such as Patriot, S-300 in Crete, and shorter-range systems such as TOR-M1 and ASRAD. The use of helicopters for landing is extremely vulnerable to such systems, as helicopters are slow and easy targets, while Greece has a strong air force with F-16 Viper and Rafale, which are capable of controlling the airspace. The rapid response of the Air Force can prevent any airborne operation.

In addition, Greek Rafale and Mirage 2000-5 are equipped with Meteor and Exocet missiles, which pose a threat to enemy helicopters and support ships. The Greek Navy is designed to closely monitor the Aegean islands, while new ships such as the FDI Belharra and the upgraded MEKO will further enhance deterrence capability.

A Turkish operation would need to secure naval support, which is extremely difficult due to Greece's geographical advantage, while the Greek islands are heavily garrisoned and heavily armed, such as anti-tank, portable anti-aircraft missiles (e.g., Stinger) and artillery. Special Forces forces (e.g., 7th MAK, ETA) and National Guard units are trained to react immediately in the event of a surprise attack.

International Reactions
Such an offensive action would trigger immediate international reactions, especially from NATO countries, the EU and the U.S. Turkey would face serious economic and political sanctions.

The occupation of a Greek island by helicopters and commandos by Turkey is militarily feasible only in theory. In practice, the strong Greek air force, navy, air defense and the immediate reaction of local forces make such an operation extremely difficult and costly for Turkey.

Source: geostratigika.gr