Two missiles launched from Iran were intercepted on Thursday, March 19, by a Greek-operated Patriot air defence system deployed in Saudi Arabia, Greek officials confirmed.
According to Greece’s military command (GEETHA), the two interceptor missiles launched after an alert was issued over the incoming threat. Both targets were successfully neutralised in line with established rules of engagement.
Defence Minister Nikos Dendias said the Iranian missiles were believed to be headed towards areas near Saudi oil refineries. “The Greek Patriot battery demonstrated its operational readiness and experience,” he noted.
Speaking at a press briefing in Athens, government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis emphasised that the interception does not signal Greece’s involvement in the ongoing Middle East conflict.
“When you are faced with an attack, you respond defensively, and this demonstrated how much the Greek armed forces have been upgraded,” Marinakis said.
He added that the Greek missile systems have been deployed in Saudi Arabia since 2021 under a bilateral defence agreement between the two countries.
Source: Kathimerini
