Greece Transfers US Sea Sparrow Missiles to Ukraine

Greece has announced the transfer of 24 US-made Sea Sparrow anti-aircraft and anti-missile missiles to Ukraine, which will be supplied to the Ukrainian Armed Forces.  These missiles, which have been in use for almost 40 years, are reportedly in service with the Greek Navy and Air Force and are considered unnecessary for operational use, Kathimerini reports.

Sea Sparrows are transported by frigates and are short-range weapons made in the USA. Ukraine already has their launchers located in coastal areas and sensitive infrastructure. They have been in service with the Ukrainian Armed Forces for almost 40 years and are considered a reliable solution.

The missiles are part of Greece's broader military assistance to Ukraine, which includes artillery, weapons and ammunition.

While this assistance is in line with Athens' commitment to support Ukraine's defence, it does not reduce Greece's defence capabilities in the Aegean. 

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis expressed Athens' commitment to continue supporting Ukraine at the EU North-South Summit in Lapland. Greece also signed a bilateral security agreement with Ukraine on the sidelines of the summit, which took place in Brussels on 17 October.