Greece is replacing the S-300 air defense systems with Israeli systems and transferring them to Armenia instead of Ukraine, despite US calls – what is this?

Greece's decision to transfer Soviet S-300 air defense systems (SAM) to Armenia rather than Ukraine came as a surprise and drew criticism.

These outdated but still effective systems could have provided significant assistance to Ukraine in the fight against Russian missiles and drones, but Athens chose to focus on other “allies.” About this writes Greek edition Enikos.

Old Soviet systems will be replaced with modern Israeli systems such as David's Sling And Spyderas part of a large-scale modernization program for the Greek armed forces. However, this strategy raises questions: why would a NATO member choose to deny Ukraine critical support?

As noted Enikos, the decision not to supply the S-300 to Ukraine is also related to the general trend: the Ukrainian army is gradually switching to Western technologies. The US and EU provide Kyiv with advanced systems that are easier to maintain and integrate.

However, this does not mean that older systems such as the S-300 have lost their value. They could become a temporary solution to strengthen Ukrainian defense.

Why does Ukraine need the S-300?

Ukraine is now experiencing a colossal shortage of air defense systems to protect against massive attacks by Russian missiles and drones. S-300 air defense systems, despite their age, remain an important tool:

• Effective against missiles and aircraft. Even the old S-300s are capable of shooting down cruise missiles and aircraft at long ranges.
• Speed ​​of integration. The Ukrainian military already has experience working with systems of this type, which allows them to be quickly put into operation.
• Filling Critical Gaps. The transfer of additional systems would make it possible to cover the weak points in the Ukrainian air defense system.

Greek edition Enikos emphasizes that the United States has repeatedly called on Athens to transfer the S-300 to Ukraine, but their requests remained unanswered. Instead, Greece chose to send these systems to Armenia, justifying the decision on “strategic interests.”

Greece Strategy: Armenia instead of Ukraine

Why did Athens choose Armenia?

1. Political motives. Greece and Armenia share a common historical and cultural connection, including religious unity. This rapprochement is seen as a means of strengthening relations against common enemy Turkey.
2. Military projects. Greece and Armenia actively cooperate in the military sphere: Armenian soldiers are trained in Greek military academies and also participate in joint exercises.
3. Logistics facilities. Armenia has experience working with Russian systems and has spare parts reserves, which simplifies the transfer of equipment.
4. Fear of ruining relations with Russia. Despite formal obligations to NATO and support for Western sanctions, Greece does not want to completely spoil relations with the Kremlin. The transfer of the S-300 to Ukraine could cause serious dissatisfaction in Moscow, something that Athens is trying to avoid.
5. Internal pressure. Political forces in Greece, in particular the opposition, actively oppose the transfer of weapons to Ukraine, arguing that this weakens national defense. In conditions of such political instability, the authorities preferred the “neutral” option – to transfer the systems to Armenia, which is historically considered an ally of Russia.

As he writes Enikos“The decision to send the S-300 to Armenia rather than Ukraine reflects a long-standing policy of strengthening ties with Yerevan.” However, it also shows Greece's reluctance to directly confront Moscow and domestic critics, raising questions about its reliability as a NATO ally.

Is Greece turning away from Ukraine?

Ukraine, which has been fighting Russia for almost two years, was counting on help from Greece. The decision to transfer old systems to Armenia raises questions:

• Weak solidarity with allies. As a member of NATO and the EU, Greece could demonstrate more unity with its allies supporting Ukraine.
• Moral aspect. Ukrainian cities are under attack every day, and the old systems could have saved thousands of lives.

Website “NAnews300, these systems could significantly strengthen Ukrainian air defense and help in countering Russian aggression. Instead, Greece makes a choice in favor of Armenia, arguing that it is based on “national interests.”

Israeli technology: benefits for Greece

The decision to replace Russian systems with Israeli technology is of strategic importance for Greece. Israeli complexes such as Barak MX And David's Slinghave the following advantages:

• Increased range. These systems cover distances of up to 300 km, protecting the Greek islands.
• NATO compatible. The use of Western technologies simplifies integration into the overall systems of the alliance.
• Innovations in air defense. Israeli systems are designed to take into account modern threats such as drones and ballistic missiles.

However, despite the advantages of Israeli systems, Greece's refusal to help Ukraine is causing mixed reactions.

Table: Comparison of the capabilities of the S-300 and Israeli systems

Conclusion

Greece's decision to transfer the S-300 to Armenia rather than Ukraine underscores the complexity of the geopolitical calculations. On the one hand, Athens is modernizing its arsenal, replacing old Soviet systems with Israeli ones. On the other hand, the refusal to help Ukraine looks like a lack of allied solidarity.

Website “NAnews – Israel News” emphasizes: even old S-300s could provide significant assistance to Ukraine, protecting peaceful cities from attacks. However, Greece chose to focus on strengthening its relations with Armenia, not spoiling its relations with Putin and “protecting its own interests.”

Quote

* “S-300 systems could play a role in the defense of Ukraine, but Greece chose a different path, despite calls from the United States,” notes Enikos.

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