Greece is in advanced discussions with Israel to incorporate artificial intelligence software into the planned Achilles’ Shield air defense system, enabling the automatic detection, classification and selection of the optimal interception response against incoming threats.
The Israeli-origin software will be connected to the system’s various capabilities – the vast majority also Israeli – including anti-ballistic, counter-drone and anti-aircraft functions. It will automatically determine which available system is best suited to confront a specific threat, eliminating the need for human assessment before intercepting an incoming projectile, drone, aircraft or missile. Decisions will be taken instantaneously.
The aim is to ensure the best possible response from the Achille’ Shield while integrating advanced artificial intelligence technology into the capabilities of the Greek armed forces. Precise and immediate forecasting is also expected to conserve resources, preventing the unnecessary use of valuable missiles or other munitions against low-cost unmanned aerial vehicles. The approach is designed to unify the country’s air defense network and upgrade the overall operation of the National Operations Center.
Talks between Athens and Jerusalem have been underway for some time, as the software belongs to Israel’s Ministry of Defense rather than a private company. Discussions initially took place at the highest level, between Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and continued between defense ministers Nikos Dendias and Israel Katz. They have now entered a purely technical phase and are expected to conclude soon.
The Achilles’ Shield will consist of existing systems, including US technology, Patriot mobile anti-aircraft units and counter-drone “soft kill” systems deployed on islands and critical infrastructure on the mainland. It will be complemented by Rafael’s short-range, self-propelled Spyder systems, intended to replace Russian and former Eastern bloc OSA-AK and TOR M1 systems facing longstanding support problems.
Discussions are also underway regarding the acquisition of IAI’s Barak MX for medium-range threats and David’s Sling for long-range ballistic and other missiles. Greece will additionally integrate PULS rocket artillery systems from Israel’s Elbit.