The US State Department has formally approved Greece’s request for a Foreign Military Sale (FMS) of Switchblade systems, valued at $80.1 million. The package, which carries significant implications for the balance of power in the Aegean and the Eastern Mediterranean, includes Switchblade 600 systems equipped with SAASM modules that are resistant to GPS spoofing.
Following the State Department’s approval, the potential sale was notified to Congress by the Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA).
Package Contents and Technical Items
The Greek Switchblade package consists of primary launch platforms, fire control systems, and logistics support elements. The main systems included in the approved sale are 350 Switchblade 300 Block 20 kamikaze drones and 35 SB300B20 Fire Control Systems.
The package also covers Switchblade 600 (SB600) units with Selective Availability Anti-Spoofing Module (SAASM) GPS hardware, along with SB600 Fire Control Systems. In addition to these, SB300B20 tactical battery chargers, SB600 smart battery chargers, spare parts, field technical representative support, and training services will also be provided. The US Government and the prime contractor will supply the necessary engineering and logistics support throughout the process.
Interoperability and Operational Assessment
In its statement, the US noted that the sale will enhance Greece’s deterrence capabilities and improve interoperability with the US in NATO operations. It also stated that Greece would be able to integrate this equipment into its armed forces without difficulty. The statement further emphasised that the equipment to be delivered would not alter the fundamental military balance in the region.
Prime Contractor and Terms
The prime contractor for the $80.1 million sale will be California-based AeroVironment Inc. The statement noted that there is no defined offset agreement at this stage, and that any potential requests would be negotiated between the purchasing country and the manufacturer. The delivery and support processes under the sale will not require the assignment of additional US Government or contractor personnel to Greece. The statement also confirmed that the sale would not have an adverse impact on US defence readiness.
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Source: C4Defence– DSCA / US Department of State
