Greece considers military aid for Ukraine's growing defense needs
Greece is examining its military stockpiles for a possible transfer to Ukraine, reports the eKathimerini portal. This action is in response to Kyiv's requests for missiles for the S-300 and Patriot systems and various other equipment. The list includes Harpoon anti-ship missiles and RM-70 rocket systems, among other items.
12:33 PM EDT, May 26, 2024
In recent weeks, Western allies have intensified assistance to Ukraine. Germany has attempted to find additional Patriot systems to send to the front lines. Although this endeavor ultimately failed, Kyiv authorities view the recent deployment of another IRIS-T SLM air defense system from Berlin as a success.
However, the air defense systems alone are not a complete solution to the Ukrainians' problems. The ongoing revival of the military sector in the Russian Federation presents the possibility of further attacks deep into Ukraine. Consequently, Kyiv continues to appeal to its allies for help. Recently, they asked Athens for ammunition for the Patriot and S-300 systems. According to the eKathimerini portal, Ukraine's list of demands from Greece also includes many other weapons.
Ukrainians ask Greece for help. Here’s what they need
The list of equipment Kyiv requests from Athens primarily includes ammunition and spare parts for F-16 fighter jets, which would be used for future aircraft repairs. Specifically, Ukraine would like to receive:
- spare parts for F-16 fighter jets;
- MLRS RM-70 Vampire rocket systems;
- engineering equipment;
- Harpoon anti-ship missiles;
- artillery shells of 6.1, 6, 4.8, and 4 inches;
- mortar and tank shells of 125, 120, 105, 30, 35, and 40 mm.
Apart from the requested tank and artillery ammunition, which the Ukrainians have often emphasized due to its shortage, the RM-70 Vampire rocket launcher from Greece’s arsenal is particularly noteworthy. The RM-70 Vampire is a multiple rocket launcher produced since the 1970s. It is similar in design to the popular BM-21 Grad systems, albeit heavier and generally considered superior.
The RM-70 is powered by an engine generating nearly 250 HP and can accelerate to almost 55 mph. Its defensive capabilities include a 4.8-inch launcher with a stock of 40 rounds of ammunition capable of reaching up to 12 miles. Additionally, the Vampire is equipped with a VZ. 59 machine gun.
The Harpoon anti-ship missiles that the Ukrainians are also requesting from the Greeks are American-made short-range cruise missiles that can be launched from surface, underwater, and aerial platforms. They are designed to eliminate surface targets, and Kyiv most likely plans to use this weapon against the shrinking Black Sea Fleet.
Depending on the variant, the Harpoon can reach targets up to 81 miles away from the launch site (even 174 miles in the extended-range version). Each version is powered by a turbojet engine, enabling the missile to reach speeds of approximately 528 mph. The effectiveness of the attack is ensured by a warhead weighing around 485 pounds.
