IRIA News

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Israel will supply advanced PULS rocket artillery systems to Greece under a deal valued at approximately $750 million, marking a significant step in deepening defense cooperation between the two countries.

The agreement, announced by Israel’s Ministry of Defense, covers the delivery of dozens of launchers along with a range of rockets capable of striking targets between 25 and 186 miles (40 to 300 kilometers).

It represents the first time Greece will acquire the Precise & Universal Launching System (PULS), a versatile platform designed for modern battlefield requirements.

The PULS system, manufactured by Elbit Systems, is designed to launch a wide variety of munitions, including unguided rockets, precision-guided projectiles, and tactical missiles. Its modular design allows it to be integrated onto both wheeled and tracked platforms, making it adaptable to different operational environments.

With a maximum range of up to 300 kilometers, the system is expected to significantly enhance Greece’s long-range strike capabilities. Israeli officials stated that the acquisition will strengthen Greece’s ability to protect key areas, including its northeastern borders and strategically important Aegean islands.

The deal also includes a comprehensive support package. Implementation is expected to take place over four years, followed by 10 years of maintenance and technical support provided by Elbit Systems.

Delayed but Strategic Agreement

Although the agreement was finalized this week, it has been under negotiation for more than two and a half years. Its completion was delayed in part due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which affected defense industry timelines and priorities.

The deal was formally approved by the Greek parliament in December 2025 as part of a government-to-government framework. Under this structure, both Israel and Greece guarantee the implementation of the agreement, reducing risks associated with procurement and delivery.

The Israeli Ministry of Defense said the agreement “reflects the growing defense cooperation between Israel and Greece,” highlighting the broader strategic alignment between the two countries.

Industrial Cooperation and Technology Transfer

A key component of the agreement involves industrial collaboration. In a supplementary statement, Elbit Systems confirmed that it will work with local Greek industries in the production process.

“Elbit will collaborate with local Greek industries for the production of the system, including technology transfer and sharing of know-how,” the company said.

This aspect of the deal is expected to support Greece’s domestic defense sector while enhancing technical expertise and manufacturing capabilities within the country.

European Expansion and EuroPULS Initiative

The agreement also aligns with Israel’s broader efforts to expand its defense footprint in Europe. Elbit Systems has established a joint venture with KNDS to market a European version of the system known as EuroPULS.

The joint venture, equally owned by the two companies, will be headquartered in Kassel, Germany. As part of this initiative, Germany has already ordered five EuroPULS launchers under a separate agreement involving the Netherlands and Israel, with delivery and training scheduled for 2027.

This development highlights the growing demand for flexible, long-range artillery systems across Europe, particularly in response to evolving security challenges.

Part of Greece’s ‘Achilles Shield’ Program

The PULS acquisition is one of several defense procurements approved by Greece as part of its broader military modernization effort known as the “Achilles Shield” project.

Under this initiative, Greece is also set to acquire advanced missile defense systems from Israeli firms. These include the Barak MX air defense system from Israel Aerospace Industries, as well as David and SPYDER mobile launcher systems from Rafael Advanced Defense Systems.

The program reflects Athens’ focus on strengthening its air and missile defense capabilities, particularly amid rising regional tensions and evolving security threats.

In parallel, Greece is continuing discussions with Israel on the potential development of a broader anti-air and missile defense network modeled on Israel’s Iron Dome system. The proposed system, also referred to as “Achilles Shield,” is estimated to cost around €3 billion.

Deepening Strategic Ties

The latest agreement underscores the steady expansion of economic, diplomatic, and military ties between Greece and Israel in recent years. The two countries have increased cooperation through joint military exercises, defense partnerships, and shared training initiatives.

Among these efforts is a joint pilot training center located in southwestern Greece, which further strengthens operational coordination between the two sides.

The PULS deal reflects not only a significant upgrade to Greece’s military capabilities but also a broader trend of closer strategic alignment between the two nations. As regional security dynamics continue to evolve, such agreements are likely to play an increasingly important role in shaping defense cooperation across the Eastern Mediterranean.