Greece raises concerns over Meteor missile sale to Türkiye in London talks

The potential sale of Meteor air-to-air missiles to Türkiye was reportedly the key topic during a meeting between Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias and U.K. Defense Secretary John Healey in London.

Greece has voiced strong opposition to the possible export of the advanced missiles to Ankara.

Greece opposes Türkiye’s acquisition of Meteor missiles

According to reports, Dendias conveyed Athens’ concerns over the sale, citing potential security implications.

The discussions come amid Türkiye’s request to acquire a significant number of Meteor missiles as part of its ongoing modernization of its air force, which includes the planned procurement of up to 40 Eurofighter Typhoon jets (20+20 units).

Greek PM Mitsotakis confirms efforts to block Türkiye’s Meteor missile acquisition

Mitsotakis, in an interview with the Greek newspaper Kathimerini, confirmed that he raised the issue of stopping Türkiye’s acquisition of Meteor missiles during his meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris.

However, he admitted that his efforts were unsuccessful.

According to Greek media reports, Macron informed Mitsotakis that blocking the sale was not feasible due to the involvement of a multinational consortium in the production of the Meteor missile system.

The advanced air-to-air missile is developed by MBDA, a defense consortium composed of six European nations: France, the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Sweden.

Failing to secure a commitment from France, Mitsotakis is now reportedly considering approaching other consortium members to explore alternative ways to halt the sale.

Türkiye confirms plans to acquire Meteor missiles as part of Eurofighter Typhoon deal

The Turkish Ministry of National Defense (MoD) recently announced plans to integrate the European-manufactured Meteor air-to-air missile into its inventory as part of the Eurofighter Typhoon procurement project.

Defense Ministry sources, speaking at a press briefing, responded to questions regarding Greece’s reaction to Türkiye’s planned acquisition of Meteor missiles from France.

“The Meteor missile is a new-generation, long-range European air-to-air missile. As part of the Eurofighter Typhoon procurement project, we plan to include Meteor missiles in our inventory,” Turkish MoD said.

“As we have always stated, our priority is domestic and national weaponry and systems. In this regard, we also aim to strengthen our Air Force with the Gokhan air-to-air missile, which we are currently developing as an equivalent to the Meteor missile. Until Gokhan enters service, the procurement of Meteor missiles alongside Eurofighter aircraft continues without issue,” the MoD sources stated.