The U.S. Department of State has approved a potential foreign military sale to Greece worth approximately $130 million for Aerosonde uncrewed aircraft systems and armored security vehicles, along with related logistical and program support.
Athens requested Aerosonde drones equipped with Lycoming engines, GPS with anti-spoofing features, and various payloads and subsystems. The request also includes interface and integration kits for M1117 ASVs, ground control stations, launch and recovery trailers, ground support equipment, and quality assurance and engineering services. Textron Systems will serve as the principal contractor.
The Aerosonde UAS, designed for land and sea operations, offers multimission capabilities, including day/night video, communications relay and signals intelligence. Textron Systems said it is ideal for covert operations and can carry up to six payloads simultaneously, ranging from maritime wide area search to electronic warfare.
Meanwhile, the M1117 ASV Guardian is a 4×4 wheeled personnel carrier that can counter small arms fire, land mines and improvised explosive devices.
According to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, the sale will support U.S. foreign policy and national security by enhancing the security of a NATO ally crucial to European political and economic stability. The proposed sale also aims to boost Greece’s ability to address current and future threats, participate in coalition operations and improve interoperability with the United States.
In November, the United States approved a $160 million sale of F-16 engine sustainment to Greece, with General Electrics Aerospace as the principal contractor. This sale aimed to improve Greece’s maintenance capabilities for its F-16 fleet and promote stability in the Eastern Mediterranean region.