Greece denies rumours of transferring S‑300 missile systems to Ukraine despite U.S. agreement
The rumour of Greece sending S-300 systems and associated missiles to Ukraine originated after the announcement of an agreement with the United States. This pact includes the procurement of 40 F-35 fighters by the Mediterranean country. American administration often requests its partners to send obsolete weapons to Ukraine in return for supplying advanced technologies. However, this proposal does not always receive a warm welcome, which is the case with Greece. A nation that has previously supported Ukraine now firmly refuses.
Feb 6, 2024 | updated: 4:11 AM EST, March 7, 2024
Greece's S-300s will not end up in Ukraine
"There must be a limit to fake news, particularly concerning our country's interests and international reputation. This topic is nonexistent, and I categorically deny its existence. Greece has no intention of endangering its defence capabilities," stated Pavlos Marinakis, the spokesman for the Greek government.
Soviet and Russian technologies still comprise much of the Greek military arsenal. This extends to the air defence systems, including the Tor-M1, Osa-M, and several hundred ZU-23-2 anti-aircraft guns. It's plausible that these could also have been the subject of talks between Washington and Athens.
However, from Ukraine's perspective, the most attractive asset is the S-300 system. These offer substantial capabilities, even though their successor, the S-400, has already been launched.
The S-300s are long-range ground-to-air missile systems that can strike targets from a distance of approximately 124 miles and at an altitude of over 16.7 miles. The S-300 system missiles carry fragmentation warheads, with some models weighing up to 397 pounds. Upon launching, they can reach a speed of about 4921 feet per second.
Greek Support for Ukraine
The refusal to supply air defence systems does not imply that Greece is completely severing ties with Ukraine. It has strongly supported Ukraine's defence forces, providing valuable ammunition.
Greece has sent Ukraine BMP-1 combat infantry vehicles, FIM-92 Stinger portable anti-aircraft missile systems, RPG-18 anti-tank grenade launchers, and a range of ammunition types, including 122 mm rocket shells. These are used in Soviet artillery adopted by the Ukrainians and are no longer available in many NATO countries.
