Israel and Greece Deepen Ties in Defense and Energy

Amid ongoing instability in the Middle East and shifting geopolitical dynamics in the Eastern Mediterranean, the relationship between Israel and Greece has evolved from basic defense cooperation into a strategic alliance rooted in trust, technology, and shared interests. At the recent DEFEA defense exhibition in Athens, Israel’s Ministry of Defense and 25 Israeli defense companies showcased cutting-edge technology, underscoring the depth of their partnership with Greece.

This burgeoning alliance is centered on innovation and readiness. Drone technology has emerged as a cornerstone of bilateral defense cooperation, enabling both nations to adapt swiftly to modern multi-domain threats. Greece’s ongoing military modernization relies heavily on Israeli defense products, from precision missile systems to state-of-the-art training facilities.

A prime example is the Kalamata Flight Training Center, a $1.5 billion initiative led by Israel’s Elbit Systems, which is equipping the Hellenic Air Force with next-generation capabilities. Meanwhile, joint naval exercises often involving the U.S. and Cyprus have highlighted Greece and Israel’s growing operational synergy, particularly in submarine warfare and search-and-rescue operations.

Yet this alliance goes far beyond defense. The countries are advancing ambitious energy infrastructure, notably an undersea cable project that will link the power grids of Israel, Cyprus, and Greece. This initiative will bolster regional energy security and integrate Israel into Europe’s energy network, reinforcing its role as a key player in the region.

Their partnership also includes innovation, tourism, emergency coordination, and diplomatic alignment through trilateral forums such as the Greece-Israel-Cyprus alliance and the broader 3+1 framework with the United States.

Much of this growing closeness is in response to shared concerns over Turkish aggression. Tensions with Ankara particularly maritime provocations near Greek islands and hostility toward Israel have led both Jerusalem and Athens to view Turkey as a destabilizing force. This common perception has accelerated strategic coordination.

What began a decade ago as cooperative gestures has now matured into a full-fledged alliance. Regular high-level exchanges, joint defense operations, and shared security and energy priorities define this rare example of regional stability. For Israel, Greece represents more than a friendly state it is a key partner in securing the future of the Eastern Mediterranean.

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