Greece to Bolster Armed Forces with U.S. Switchblade Drones

Greece plans to enhance its military capabilities by acquiring Switchblade drones from the United States as part of a decade-long recovery plan. The country intends to purchase up to 40 F-35 fighter jets and three frigates in addition. The total cost for the drones is 75.2 million euros.

Greece is set to strengthen its military by purchasing Switchblade drones from the United States, sources revealed on Wednesday. The acquisition is part of a multi-billion euro, 10-year defense plan aimed at bolstering the nation's armed forces post its debt crisis.

The Switchblade drones, produced by AeroVironment, Inc., are designed to fly to a target and detonate, a feature currently being used by Ukraine against Russian forces. A Greek official confirmed the selection but did not specify the number of units to be purchased.

A second source disclosed that the drones would cost 75.2 million euros. Two types of Switchblade with ranges of up to 20 km and 40 km will be acquired, supplementing the country's existing Spike anti-tank missiles. The procurement, pending approval by KYSEA, highlights tension with neighboring Turkey over territorial and energy resources.

(With inputs from agencies.)