Greece has reportedly begun repositioning some of its Patriot anti-missile systems to Souda Bay, Crete, as a precautionary measure in response to the escalating Israel-Iran conflict.
This strategic move is aimed at preparing for a “worst-case scenario” of the conflict spreading across the Eastern Mediterranean.
Greece currently operates six Patriot missile batteries, which include a total of 36 M901 Patriot PAC-2 launchers. It is not currently how many would be deployed on Crete.
A Patriot battery is a complete system that includes a radar, an engagement control station, and multiple launchers. Each M901 launcher typically carries four PAC-2 missiles, or more if they are the smaller PAC-3 missiles.
Emergency meeting in Greece spurs Patriot missile mobilization
The decision emerged from a high-level meeting convened on Wednesday by the Minister of National Defense, Nikos Dendias, involving both the political and military leadership of the Armed Forces. The central theme of the discussion was how Greece’s existing armament systems and capabilities could be effectively utilized should the need arise.
According to available information, the transfer of Patriot systems from the Hellenic Air Force is already underway, specifically for the anti-ballistic protection of American targets. These systems offer crucial anti-ballistic coverage and are expected to be deployed at Souda Bay, initially to safeguard U.S. assets in the region.
Souda Bay: A hub of increased activity
Souda Bay, a strategically vital naval base, has witnessed intensified activity following the recent surge in Middle East tensions. This includes the temporary re-stationing of American F-16s before their transfer to Turkey in early July for participation in the large-scale “Anatolian Eagle” exercise.
It’s important to note that Greece’s Armed Forces possess no other anti-ballistic capabilities beyond these Patriot systems. Consequently, these assets are indispensable for protecting critical military infrastructure within the country.
While Greece’s Defense Ministry does not perceive a direct threat from Iran, the emergency meeting on Wednesday underscored the government’s preparedness. The discussions focused on how existing defense capabilities could be rapidly mobilized if circumstances demanded.
The decision to reposition the Patriots comes amidst growing concerns about potential U.S. involvement in the Israel-Iran conflict, particularly in response to a hypothetical extensive attack on Iran’s Fordow nuclear facilities.
Analysts indicate that while Israeli forces have targeted other “nuclear interest” sites, Fordow, with its deeply buried and heavily armored “heart” of Tehran’s nuclear program, remains the most critical. Such a strike, they suggest, would likely require the use of specialized armor-piercing bombs, which are exclusively available to U.S. forces, thus escalating the prospect of American assistance.
Greece reaffirms non-intervention stance
Earlier, speaking at a conference in Athens, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis emphatically stated that Greece would not participate in any military operation in the Middle East.
“In the history of the Middle East there has often been much fanciful thinking to the effect that we can solve problems with military action, something that didn’t end well,” Mitsotakis remarked, expressing a cautious approach to regional conflicts. He also voiced hope that any escalation would not trigger negative economic repercussions for the international economy, such as inflation and disruptions to energy markets.