Greece's state-owned Hellenic Vehicle Industry (ELVO) has expressed interest in taking part in the multinational defence programme "Achilles Shield". The programme, a planned multilayered air defence system developed jointly with Israeli defence firms, aims to bolster Greece's air defence and security capabilities.
This move comes amid ongoing discussions to increase domestic industrial involvement in strategic defence and security projects, following calls for greater local participation. Executives from three major Israeli companies—Rafael, Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), and Elbit Systems—reportedly met in Athens with officials from the Greek Ministry of Defence and military leaders to discuss the development of an anti-aircraft "dome".
According to Kathimerini, negotiations have concentrated on the extent of Greek industrial involvement, with initial Israeli proposals suggesting returns of around 10%-15%, but Athens pushing for at least 25% domestic participation across defence programmes, reigniting discussions. Talks appear to have progressed toward this target, with Greek authorities aiming to have a substantial portion of the system developed domestically.
For its part, ELVO stated it brings experience in the design, manufacturing, assembly and support of military and special vehicles, along with production and testing infrastructure at its facilities in Sindos, near Thessaloniki. The company believes it can contribute to the programme by utilising its "production capacity, technical know-how and support infrastructure" to increase local added value.
The announcement also emphasised ELVO's ability to combine Greece's industrial base with international expertise, enabling participation in defence collaborations abroad. This approach, it said, supports involvement in large-scale, cross-border defence projects.
According to the company, involving Greek industrial actors in projects of this nature is linked to strengthening national defence capabilities, advancing the country's technological base, and creating employment. ELVO added that it is prepared, within its means, to contribute to initiatives that enhance domestic defence production while fostering cooperation with international partners.
