France seeks Greek defense shield for 2024 Olympics security

According to the Greek newspaper "Kathimerini", France is grappling with a scarcity of air defense systems. Paris has reportedly contacted Athens to request the loan of such weapons for the 2024 Summer Olympics. This article delves into what equipment might be involved in this request.

France is one of the nations most dedicated to supporting Ukraine, dispatching a wide array of military hardware, including air defense systems. Despite not depleting its inventory, the quantity sent has been so substantial that meeting domestic needs has become challenging. It appears that the solution could involve enlisting the aid of an ally. Greece has emerged as a prime candidate, possessing, among other assets, Crotale NG air defense systems in its arsenal—equipment that it acquired from France a few years ago.

"If our allies ask for a specific period of time — in this case the Olympic Games — a specific assistance, which does not in any way affects the country's defense capability, this will be done, but always after coordination and consultation between the two sides,. But we are always talking — and I make it clear — about a limited specific time period," government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis told Greek media.

Thomson-CSF devised the Crotale air defense system in the 1970s. The Crotale NG represents an enhanced variant launched into service in 1990. Depending on the model, a Crotale NG launcher can house four or eight missiles, which, upon launch, can accelerate to speeds exceeding 3.5 Ma (approximately 2685 mph).

Emerging online information suggests that the protection of the skies during the Paris Olympic Games might utilize Greek Crotale NG systems, if available, and include systems that remain within France. This includes the involvement of SAMP/T air defense systems and aircraft from the French Air Force's inventory, notably the Mirage 2000-5 fighters and the Rafale multi-role aircraft, which represent the most advanced units of the French Air Force.