Greece has transferred a Patriot missile defense battery to the northwestern part of Crete, as confirmed by sources within the Ministry of Defense to local publications Kathimerini and Parapolitika.
This move comes amid escalating security concerns in the Middle East. Reports indicate that the transfer began early Sunday morning.
Previously stationed on Karpathos Island, the battery is now repositioned to bolster the defense of Souda Bay military base, which is frequently utilized by the United States.
Greek defense sources have described the relocation of the Patriot system as a precautionary measure. Given the presence of US forces and the strategic significance of the installations at Souda, the move aims to enhance the protection of critical infrastructure there.
In Athens, officials do not view this action as a signal of an imminent attack. Senior military officials have indicated to the Greek press that the Ministry of Defense is adjusting its planning in response to the evolving security landscape.
Threats from Tehran
The Financial Times reported on Wednesday, citing sources close to the Iranian government, that Tehran is considering targeting locations in southeastern Europe should President Donald Trump escalate the conflict.
NATO has stated through a spokesperson that it is ready to confront any threat and will always do what is necessary to defend the alliance’s member states.
In March, a British airbase in Cyprus was struck by a drone; that same month, NATO intercepted projectiles launched by Iran towards Turkey.
