Greek Patriots Intercept Ballistic Missiles Over Saudi Oil Refineries

Greek military personnel operating a U.S.-made Patriot air defense battery in Saudi Arabia intercepted two ballistic missiles launched from Yemen on Saturday. The attack targeted oil refineries in the Yanbu region, according to Greek security sources cited by Reuters.

The Patriots successfully downed both missiles, marking the second time Greek personnel have operated the system to intercept an attack. In March, Greek Patriots shot down two Iranian missiles fired at Saudi refineries, reported Kathimerini.

Greece has deployed a Patriot air defense battery in Saudi Arabia since 2021 under an agreement to help protect the kingdom's energy infrastructure. The unit, known as ELDYSA, was formed following years of technical and diplomatic negotiations that culminated in a 2021 memorandum of cooperation. Greek military sources said the attack 'was carried out with two ballistic missiles and targeted a major refinery facility in the Yanbu region.'