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Athens hands over 40-year-old Sea Sparrow missiles to Kiev

They are from the stocks of the Greek Navy and Air Force

Dec 28, 2024 19:03 111

Athens hands over 40-year-old Sea Sparrow missiles to Kiev  - 1

Greece has agreed to provide Ukraine with 24 Sea Sparrow missiles, which will assist the Armed Forces of Ukraine in their fight against persistent threats, reports Ekathimerini, quoted by FOKUS.

These missiles, which have been in use for nearly 40 years, are from the stocks of the Greek Navy and Air Force and are considered unnecessary for operational use according to Greek military standards.

The Sea Sparrow is an American short-range anti-aircraft weapon and Ukraine already has the necessary launchers for them.

This transfer is part of Greece's broader military assistance to Ukraine, which includes artillery shells, weapons and ammunition.

Although the assistance is in line with Greece's commitment to efforts to defense of Ukraine, it does not reduce Greece's defense capabilities in the Aegean Sea.

Despite repeated requests from allies for modern systems such as the S-300 and Patriot missiles, Athens has flatly refused, citing security concerns and the lack of credible replacement options.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis reaffirmed Greece's unwavering support for Ukraine during the recent European summit.