Recent reports suggest that Greece is contemplating the transfer of its S-300 air defense systems to Armenia, a move that underscores the strategic alignment between the two nations and Armenia’s push for military modernization in light of its security challenges. According to Greek news outlet Enikos, Greece’s military is progressing towards replacing Russian-made S-300PMU1 systems, Tor-M1, and Osa-AK air defense units with advanced Western alternatives, driven by maintenance difficulties caused by international sanctions on Russia.
Greece’s consideration of transferring the S-300 systems to Armenia highlights the deep-rooted relationship between the two nations. Historically, both have faced geopolitical challenges from neighboring adversaries, fostering solidarity over the years. Furthermore, the decision appears to be part of a broader collaboration between Greece and France to bolster Armenia’s defense capabilities.
“Armenians are well-versed in using Russian-origin systems like the S-300, and they have the necessary spare parts for maintenance, addressing a significant challenge faced by Greek forces due to the lack of spares after the Ukraine war,” the Enikos report noted.
France has emerged as Armenia’s leading Western defense ally, aligning its strategic interests with Yerevan in recent years. This partnership was further solidified when Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias visited Armenia in March 2024, reiterating Greece’s commitment to enhancing military ties. In addition, Armenia announced plans to formalize a military-technical cooperation agreement with Greece, covering defense technology transfers and equipment repair.
The reports also indicate that France might be facilitating the transfer of Greek S-300s to Armenia. If confirmed, it would reflect France’s broader commitment to modernizing Armenia’s armed forces. Notably, France has already supplied Armenia with CAESAR self-propelled guns, Bastion armored vehicles, and GM 200 radars.
Armenia has been on a significant military modernization drive since its defeat in the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh conflict against Azerbaijan, which showcased Baku’s effective use of Turkish drones and other advanced systems. This has pushed Yerevan to strengthen its air defenses and diversify its sources of weaponry.
Historically reliant on Russian arms, Armenia has faced delays and unmet commitments from Moscow amid strained relations. This led to its withdrawal from the Russia-led Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) and a pivot towards alternative suppliers, including France and India.
- Akash Surface-to-Air Missiles (SAM) from India: A short-range system capable of engaging fighter jets, UAVs, and helicopters within a 25-kilometer range, featuring rapid response and resistance to jamming.
- Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launch Systems (MBRLS): Comparable to the American HIMARS, Pinaka provides area bombardment capability with a range of 38 kilometers.
- Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS): Six units delivered with potential plans for 84 additional units to replace Soviet-era artillery.
- Anti-Drone Systems: A crucial capability for countering Azerbaijan’s reliance on UAVs.
Armenia already operates several S-300 units, making the potential acquisition from Greece a seamless addition to its arsenal. The S-300’s long-range capabilities would complement the short-range Akash SAM systems, creating a layered air defense network.
If transferred, these systems could play a critical role in neutralizing aerial threats, including advanced drones and fighter jets, thus addressing a key vulnerability exposed during the 2020 conflict. However, such a move could exacerbate regional tensions.
The prospect of Armenia acquiring additional S-300 systems is likely to provoke strong opposition from Azerbaijan. Yerevan has been accused by Baku of engaging in an arms build-up that threatens regional stability. The continued tensions along the Armenia-Azerbaijan border and unresolved disputes over Nagorno-Karabakh add a volatile dimension to these developments.
Moreover, Azerbaijan’s close ties with Turkey and Israel—both major suppliers of cutting-edge military technology—could lead to a counter-balancing arms race in the region. The geopolitical chessboard involving Armenia, Azerbaijan, and their respective allies, including Turkey, Russia, and Western nations, could further complicate peace efforts.
Greece’s decision to consider transferring its S-300 systems to Armenia comes amidst its own efforts to overhaul its air defense systems. Initially, Greece was speculated to be weighing the possibility of sending these systems to Ukraine, which has operational familiarity with the S-300. However, Greece refrained, citing potential violations of agreements with Russia and warnings from Moscow.
Instead, Armenia, a historical ally with operational experience in using Russian systems, seems to be a more suitable recipient. The move allows Greece to align with its NATO and EU allies by reducing dependency on Russian-origin equipment while simultaneously strengthening ties with Armenia and France.
France’s support for Armenia is underpinned by a long-standing relationship, partly driven by its sizable Armenian diaspora. Paris has consistently taken a pro-Armenian stance, including early recognition of the Armenian genocide and recent military aid commitments.
The French-supplied CAESAR artillery, Bastion vehicles, and GM 200 radars are clear indicators of Paris’s resolve to enhance Armenia’s military resilience. The potential S-300 transfer aligns with France’s broader strategy to support Armenia against perceived threats, particularly from Azerbaijan and Turkey.
Despite the potential benefits for Armenia, the transfer of S-300 systems remains unconfirmed. Greece has not made an official announcement, and the decision could face scrutiny from international stakeholders, particularly Russia, which views such transfers as a violation of its agreements. Additionally, this could complicate Greece’s relations with NATO members like Turkey, given the latter’s strategic partnership with Azerbaijan.
For Armenia, integrating new systems from diverse suppliers poses logistical and operational challenges. Ensuring interoperability between Russian, Indian, and Western equipment will require substantial investment in training and infrastructure.
