US, Greece mull deal to supply more ammo to Ukraine, including rare 203-mm shells - media

According to Defense Express, Greek media report that Washington and Athens are discussing a deal under which the US intends to buy tens of thousands of artillery rounds from Greece, which will then be supplied to the Ukrainian army.

The deal involves about 75,000 artillery rounds of various calibers. 

The specified ammunition includes:

• 50,000 units of 105-mm shells
• 20,000 units of 155-mm shells
• 5,000 units of 203-mm shells.

The 203-mm shells in particular are suitable for the Pion self-propelled cannon, which can hit targets at a distance of up to 47 kilometers.  

According to media reports, the contract is estimated to be worth $47 million, translating to an average cost of $626 per round. There is no information available on when the US and Greece might reach an agreement or the timeline for the delivery of the ammunition to Ukraine. However, the media highlighted that such a deal would be advantageous for Greece.

Defense Express adds that, while the quantity of artillery ammunition may be considered relatively modest, it remains a positive development, particularly considering the uncertain approval of defense aid from the US to Ukraine. Additionally, the EU's plan to supply the Ukrainian Defense Forces with 1 million artillery rounds by March 2024 is facing delays. In this context, any contribution, especially considering the limited availability of 203-mm ammunition, is seen as a welcome addition.