Israel and Greece have signed a memorandum of understanding to offer a large-class unmanned underwater system for the Hellenic Navy.
Announced at an international defense exhibit in Athens, the collaboration will support potential deliveries of Tel Aviv’s domestically produced BlueWhale sub-surface drone.
The autonomous platform is developed by Israel Aerospace Industries’ (IAI) subsidiary ELTA Systems for anti-submarine warfare, mine countermeasures, radar-enabled data collection, signals intelligence, and communication-related tasks.
Additional applications of the system include acoustic reconnaissance, special force support, anti-piracy, maritime expeditions, and as a conventional submarine wingman.
Terms of the project include state-owned defense company Hellenic Aerospace Industries (HAI) receiving a “critical role” in the BlueWhale’s future development and production for the Greek navy.
Associated technologies, access, and knowledge of manufacturing the drone will be transferred by IAI to its counterpart once the necessary requirements of this partnership are approved.
“This collaboration reflects our deep commitment to supporting Greece’s defense priorities by offering cutting-edge, operationally proven solutions while fostering local industry, technological independence and long-term regional resilience,” Naval News reported, citing IAI CEO Boaz Levy.
Advantage in Aegean Sea
The BlueWhale measures 11 meters (36 feet) long, has a diameter of 1.1 meters (3.6 feet), and weighs 6 tons (5,443 kilograms).
Depending on mission sets, users can equip the platform with sensors, all-day electro-optic infrared devices, and magnetic capabilities.
It sails at a low-noise frequency, moves at 7 knots (13 kilometers/8 miles per hour), has a depth range of 300 meters (984 feet), and can support endurance operations for up to four weeks.
“The potential integration and co-production of BlueWhale deepens the bilateral ties and represents a leap toward technological autonomy for our country,” HAI CEO Alexandros Diakopoulos commented on the recent signing.
“The Aegean Sea is characterized by complex geography and the ability to conduct persistent surveillance can ensure rapid response and operational advantage.”
