Turkey-Italy defense cooperation sparks strategic concern in Greece

Defense industry cooperation between Turkey and Italy is causing strategic concern in Greece. A partnership between the Turkish company BAYKAR and the Italian firm Leonardo has led to the creation of LBA Systems. This collaboration showcased the Astore Levante, a variant of the Bayraktar TB3 developed for long-duration surveillance, targeting, and electronic warfare. The aircraft features a 14-meter wingspan and a 280-kilogram payload capacity, with the Italian Armed Forces expected to be its primary customer.

Simultaneously, Greek media reports indicate heightened anxiety in Athens regarding Turkey's regional influence and maritime policies. Key concerns include Turkey's Blue Homeland doctrine and potential seismic research activities in the East Mediterranean under the Great Sea Interconnect project. Additionally, Greek officials are monitoring Turkey's potential return to the F-35 program and the impact of shifting political dynamics in the United States on regional security.