Greece Considers Transferring Patriot Air Defense System to Ukraine in Exchange for US Security Guarantees and Compensation

Greece is considering transferring one of its Patriot PAC-3 air defense systems to Ukraine in exchange for US security guarantees against Turkey and a financial compensation package, according to Greek media reports. The EU and NATO have been pushing Greece and Spain to provide Ukraine with more air defense systems, as they are geographically the least vulnerable to Russia's aggression.

Under the proposed deal, Greece could send one Patriot system to Ukraine if the US either transfers another Patriot system from its own stock or provides financial compensation from the $60 billion Ukraine aid package. The US has reportedly provided assurances of Greece's security against the perceived Turkish threat during the use of the Patriot system, though the exact nature of these assurances is not specified.

Sources in the Greek government indicate that if the Patriot batteries are destroyed, they will be replaced by the US, and Greece will receive money from the $61 billion aid package provided to Ukraine. Greece currently has six Patriot systems, and Ukraine could receive at least one Patriot PAC-3 complex with PAC-2 GEM missiles. Greece is also considering transferring a second Patriot battery to Ukraine at a later stage.

Why this matters: The potential transfer of Patriot air defense systems from Greece to Ukraine is a significant development in the ongoing conflict, as it would strengthen Ukraine's ability to counter increased Russian aerial strikes on its cities and critical infrastructure. The deal also highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics at play, with Greece seeking to balance its support for Ukraine with its own national security concerns vis-à-vis Turkey.

The transfer of Patriot systems to Ukraine is seen as essential to address the country's pressing need for additional air defenses. Ukraine has expressed the need for 25 such systems, as the Patriot system has demonstrated high efficiency in intercepting and destroying various aerial threats, including the latest generation of Russian missiles. Greece has already committed 185 million euros ($197 million) in aid to Ukraine as of April 2024.

Key Takeaways

• Greece considering transferring Patriot air defense system to Ukraine
• In exchange for US security guarantees against Turkey and financial compensation
• US may provide another Patriot system or funds from $60B Ukraine aid package
• If Patriot system is destroyed, US will replace it, and Greece will receive funds
• Transfer would strengthen Ukraine's air defenses against increased Russian strikes