Israel, Greece Sign Record Defense Deal
Voice of America
JERUSALEM - Israel and Greece have signed their biggest ever defense procurement deal, which Israel said Sunday would strengthen political and economic ties between the two countries as their air forces launched a joint exercise.
The agreement includes a $1.65 billion contract for the establishment and operation of a training center for the Hellenic Air Force by Israeli defense contractor Elbit Systems over 22 years, Israel's defense ministry said. The training center will be modeled on Israel's flight academy and will be equipped with 10 M-346 training aircraft produced by Italy's Leonardo, the ministry said. Elbit will supply kits to upgrade and operate Greece's T-6 aircraft and also provide training, simulators and logistical support.
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