Greece protests France-Türkiye defense partnership over Bayraktar drone deal
Greece has lodged a formal diplomatic protest with France over a new defense cooperation agreement between French defense company Safran and Turkish drone manufacturer Baykar, according to a report by Kathimerini.
The agreement will see Safran's Euroflir electro-optical systems integrated into Baykar’s Bayraktar TB2 drones, enhancing their surveillance, reconnaissance and targeting capabilities.
The partnership was among seven defense agreements signed by Türkiye with international partners during and around the SAHA EXPO 2026. According to a joint statement, the cooperation includes the co-development of solutions combining optronic sensors, navigation systems and guided munitions for drone and air-to-ground operations.
Kathimerini reported that the Greek government formally raised its objections with Paris following the announcement of the deal.
Safran Defense Chief Alexandre Ziegler said the integration of Euroflir systems and advanced navigation technologies into TB2 drones would mark “a new milestone in operational performance.” Baykar CEO Haluk Bayraktar said the partnership aims to deliver innovative solutions and expand opportunities in international markets.
The Safran agreement was one of several defense cooperation deals announced by Türkiye, including projects involving partners in Italy, Estonia, Spain, Canada and the United Arab Emirates, as Ankara seeks to expand its defense industry presence in European and global markets.
Source:DailySabah - Photos:AA
