Greek-operated Patriot system in Saudi Arabia intercepts ballistic missile and drone

On September 24, 2026, a Greek-operated Patriot air defence system in Saudi Arabia intercepted a ballistic missile and a drone near Yanbu, a region with major oil refineries. Greek security sources confirmed the interception, which was the fifth combat use of the system since the US-Israel war with Iran began in late February. The Greek battery has been deployed in Saudi Arabia since 2021 to protect energy facilities. The deployment has sparked debate in Greece about transparency and democratic accountability of such security agreements.