Israeli Defense Secretary Benny Gantz wears a face mask while looking out the window of a helicopter on a tour of the Gaza border region, southern Israel, March 2, 2021. REUTERS / Dan Williams / File Photo
Israel and Greece have signed their largest-ever defense purchase deal, which Israel said on Sunday would strengthen political and economic ties between the countries.
The deal includes a $ 1.65 billion contract to establish and operate a training center for the Hellenic Air Force by Israeli defense contractor Elbit Systems (ESLT.TA) over a 22-year period, Israel’s Ministry of Defense 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 supply kits to upgrade and operate Greece’s T-6 aircraft, as well as provide training, simulators and logistics support.
“I am sure that (this program) will improve capabilities and strengthen the economies of Israel and Greece and thus deepen the partnership between our two countries at the defense, economic and political levels,” said the Israeli Minister of Finance. Defense Benny Gantz.
The announcement follows a meeting in Cyprus on Friday between UAE foreign ministers, Greek, Cypriot and Israeli ministers, who agreed to deepen cooperation between their countries. read more
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