[AP]
Greece may receive more than the originally agreed 600 US-made Switchblade drones as increased production has lowered costs, defense officials say.
The Greek military had secured a deal for Switchblade 300 block 20 and Switchblade 600 loitering munitions worth $75 million, with $50 million funded through the US Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program. However, with manufacturer AeroVironment ramping up production, the US has informed Athens that more drones could be acquired under the existing budget.
Talks are under way to expand Greece’s order, as these systems have proven highly effective in Ukraine.
The Switchblade 300, weighing 2.5 kg, is designed for infantry and lightly armored vehicles, while the heavier 600 model can target tanks with a 40-kilometer range.
Greek special forces are already trained in similar systems, ensuring rapid integration.
The Defense Ministry is also exploring training conscripts in operating FPV kamikaze drones, potentially of Greek design. With drone warfare reshaping modern battlefields, Athens aims to solidify its capabilities in this evolving domain.