“If an ally of ours asks for a specific period of time – in this case the Olympics – that does not have any impact on the nation's defense capabilities, this will be done, but always after coordination and consultation between the two countries. '', government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis told reporters at a regular briefing on Thursday. “But we're always talking about a limited and specific period of time, and I'm clear about that.”
Officials at the French embassy in Athens declined to comment.
This is the first time there have been reports that France is requesting air defense materials for the Olympics. Previously, it has been reported that foreign police and military forces will participate during the tournament.
Although not directly related to Ukraine, France's request is seen as an indirect invitation to “lift” some of its air defenses against Athens in a Europe-wide effort to shore up Kiev.
The United States is expected to put further pressure on Athens in this regard on Friday during a conference call on assistance to Ukraine scheduled during the Ukraine Defense Contact Group.
The Crotale air defense system in question is French-made and was integrated into the Hellenic Air Force in 2003. The range is 11-20 kilometers, and the maximum engagement altitude is 6 kilometers. It is described as “ideal” for the purposes desired by the French.
