Greece to hand over Sea Sparrow missiles to Ukraine
Ukraine has adapted Sea Sparrow missiles for FrankenSAM air defense systems (photo: Getty Images)
Greece will provide Ukraine with several RIM-7 Sea Sparrow missiles that are used in air defense systems such as FrankenSAM, reports ekathimerini.com.
The Greek government has reportedly approved the transfer of 24 RIM-7 Sea Sparrow missiles, which have been in service with the Greek Navy and Air Force for almost 40 years and are “deemed unnecessary for operational use by Greek military standards.”
The transfer of anti-aircraft missiles is part of a broader military assistance that includes artillery shells, weapons, and ammunition. It is emphasized that these supplies do not reduce Greece's defense capabilities in the Aegean Sea.
RIM-7 Sea Sparrow: what are these missiles
Sea Sparrow is a short-range anti-aircraft missile made in the USA. Ukraine has the necessary launchers for them. These are the so-called FrankenSAM systems. It is known that Ukraine has been able to adapt its Buk-M1 air defense systems to launch RIM-7 missiles at air targets.
Earlier in October, Ukraine and Greece signed a security agreement under which Athens will, among other things, help train pilots on F-16s.
Prior to that, Greece provided our country with ammunition, infantry fighting vehicles, and other military aid.
Ukraine itself is more interested in Greek S-300 air defense systems. However, the Greek side has repeatedly refused, claiming that it has no reliable replacement options.
