Greek Patriot system intercepts drone swarm over Saudi Arabia

RIYADH: A US-made Patriot air defence system operated by Greek military personnel in Saudi Arabia intercepted a swarm of drones in the wider Yanbu region on Thursday, according to Greek security sources cited by Reuters.

The incident took place near Yanbu, a strategically important area that hosts major oil refining facilities and other critical energy infrastructure.

A Greek security source said the Patriot battery engaged the incoming drones in coordination with Saudi air defence systems.

The Greek-operated system reportedly fired three interceptor missiles during the operation. However, the sources did not disclose how many drones were destroyed or identify where the drones originated.

A second Greek security source also confirmed the incident.

The latest interception marks the third combat use of the Greek-operated Patriot system since the outbreak of the US-Israeli war on Iran, highlighting the expanding role of European military assets in protecting vital Gulf infrastructure.

Greece has maintained a US-made Patriot air defence battery in Saudi Arabia since 2021. The system is operated by Greek personnel under an agreement aimed at helping Saudi Arabia protect key energy facilities from aerial threats.

The latest incident comes as security concerns continue to rise across the Gulf and Red Sea regions. Energy facilities and maritime routes have faced increased risks amid the wider regional conflict.

Yanbu is particularly significant for Saudi Arabia because of its oil infrastructure and location on the Red Sea. Any sustained threat to the area could have implications for energy security and regional trade.

The coordination between the Greek Patriot unit and Saudi air defence forces demonstrates the growing cooperation among regional and international partners to protect critical infrastructure from drone and missile attacks.

The identities of those behind Thursday’s drone swarm were not immediately established, and no details were provided about potential damage from the incident.