Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz wears a face mask while looking out the window of a helicopter during a tour of the Gaza border area, southern Israel, March 2, 2021. REUTERS / Dan Williams / File Photo
Israel and Greece have signed the largest defense procurement agreement, on which Israel said on Sunday it would strengthen political and economic ties between the countries.
The agreement includes a $ 1.65 billion contract for the establishment and operation of a Greek Air Force training center by Israeli defense contractor Elbit Systems (ESLT.TA) over a 22-year period, the Israeli defense ministry said.
The training center will be modeled after Israel’s own flight academy and will be equipped with 10 M-346 training aircraft produced by the Italian company Leonardo (LDOF.MI), the ministry said.
Elbit will provide kits for the modernization and operation of T-6 aircraft in Greece and will also provide training, simulators and logistical support.
“I am confident that (this program) will improve capabilities and strengthen the economies of Israel and Greece, and thus the partnership between our two countries will deepen in terms of defense, economic and political,” said Israeli Defense Minister Benny Fat.
The announcement follows a meeting in Cyprus on Friday between UAE ministers, Greeks, Cypriots and Israelis, who agreed to deepen co-operation between their countries. Read more
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