Israel Greece sign Defence Deal

Israel and Greece have signed their biggest ever defence procurement deal. The agreement amounted to 1.65 billion USD. It will strengthen economic and political ties between the countries. Also, the countries launched a joint exercise.

What is the agreement?

• Under the agreement, a training centre for the operation of Hellenic Air Force (the Air Force of Greece) is to be established by the Israeli Defence Contractor Elbit Systems for a period of twenty-two years.
• The training centre is to be modelled on the flight academy of Israel.
• The centre is to be equipped with ten M-346 training aircrafts. These aircrafts were produced by Italy’s Leonardo.
• Under the agreement, Elbit of Israel will supply kits to operate and upgrade T-6 aircrafts of Greece.

Background

The agreement was signed after a meeting held in Cyprus between Greek, UAE, Cypriot and Israel. Israel and Greece have practiced against the S-300 missiles during their exercises in the past. The S-300, a Russian made air defence system has been deployed in Iran and Syria. However, the recent joint exercises did not use S-300 missiles. Israel considers Iran and Syria as its foe.

Recent Developments

Greece, Cyprus and Israel have taken several steps recently to cement their ties. This includes building a 2,000 MW undersea electricity cable and 1,900 km undersea gas pipeline.

Recently, the three countries Israel, Cyprus and Greece conducted a joint naval exercise.

Issues with Turkey

Turkey recently sent gas prospecting vessels into the waters claimed by Greece. Also, Turkey sent drilling ships into an area where Cyprus claims exclusive rights.

Month: Current Affairs - April, 2021