RIYADH, Aug. 27 (YPA) – An air defense system operated by Greek military personnel in Saudi Arabia intercepted a swarm of drones on Thursday heading toward the city of Yanbu, where oil refining facilities are located, in Saudi Arabia, Reuters reported, citing Greek security sources.
According to the sources, it was the third time the Greek-operated system has been used in combat since the US Israeli war on Iran began, underscoring the widening military role of European allies in defending Gulf energy infrastructure.
“The battery engaged the drones in coordination with Saudi air defense systems,” one of the sources said, adding that the Greek Patriot system launched three missiles, without detailing the number of drones downed or their origin.
Greece has deployed a US-made Patriot air defense battery, operated by Greek personnel, in Saudi Arabia since 2021 under an agreement to help protect the kingdom’s energy facilities.
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