Israel and Greece have signed their largest ever defence procurement deal, which Israel mentioned on Sunday would strengthen political and financial ties between the nations and the 2 nations’ air forces launched a joint train.

The settlement features a $1.65 billion contract for the institution and operation of a coaching centre for the Hellenic Air Force by Israeli defence contractor Elbit Techniques over a 22-year interval, Israel’s defence ministry mentioned.

The coaching centre will probably be modelled on Israel’s personal flight academy and will probably be outfitted with 10 M-346 coaching plane produced by Italy’s Leonardo, the ministry mentioned.

Elbit will provide kits to improve and function Greece’s T-6 aircraft and likewise present coaching, simulators and logistical help.

“I’m sure that (this programme) will improve the capabilities and strengthen the economies of Israel and Greece and thus the partnership between our two nations will deepen on the defence, financial and political ranges,” mentioned Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz.

The announcement follows a gathering in Cyprus on Friday between the UAE, Greek, Cypriot and Israeli overseas ministers, who agreed to deepen cooperation.

The Israeli and Greek air forces on Sunday launched a joint train in Greece, the Israeli navy mentioned.

In no less than one previous train over Greece, Israeli fighter planes practised towards an S-300 posted on Crete. The Russian-made air defence system can also be deployed in Syria and Iran, Israel’s foes.

A supply within the Hellenic Nationwide Defence Command mentioned the S-300 had not been activated within the joint train that started Sunday.