Despite Ukraine's repeated requests to Greece for the transfer of surface-to-air missile systems and their associated missiles, particularly the S-300, which are part of the Greek military arsenal, the country has yet to give the "green light" for this matter. Instead, it was revealed in November that Greece will provide its S-300, "Tor," and "Osa" systems to Armenia instead of Ukraine, a decision driven by pragmatic motivations.
However, as reported by the Greek publication Ekathimerini, Greece has ultimately decided to bolster Ukraine's Defense Forces with other missiles - specifically, the Sea Sparrow. This transfer will not affect Athens' defense capabilities and is part of a broader package of military assistance that includes artillery ammunition and other weaponry.
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There are two key points highlighted in this situation: firstly, it is reported that the number of Sea Sparrow missiles Greece is providing to Ukraine amounts to only 24 units, likely drawn from the stocks of both the Greek Air Force and Navy.
Secondly, it is noted that these missiles have been deemed "unnecessary for operational use according to Greek military standards." The condition of these missiles is not specified, although it is mentioned that they have been in service for nearly 40 years.
It remains unclear whether the transfer of 24 missiles will be the first and last shipment for Ukraine, or if Greece will decide to allocate more Sea Sparrow systems for our Defense Forces in the future.
In any case, it is noted that our FrankenSAM systems, specifically the hybrid of Buk and RIM-7 Sea Sparrow missiles, will receive a modest but additional supply of missiles.
It is worth recalling that the first Buk missile systems, adapted for launching RIM-7 Sea Sparrow missiles, were received by Ukraine back in 2023. This year, the hybrid missile system FrankenSAM successfully shot down an aerial target for the first time, and subsequently, the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine officially showcased this system for the first time.
Previously, Defense Express reported that the USA wants a similar FrankenSAM on a truck, which was supplied to Ukraine.