Defense minister unveils plan for missile shield
Speaking during Saint Nicholas Day celebrations on Friday, Dendias said the missile shield will be capable of “preventing and deterring any thought or attempt of overturning the status quo in the Aegean, which has been established and secured by international treaties, international law, and the international law of the sea.”
His remarks appeared directed at Ankara amid renewed tensions and aggressive rhetoric from Turkey over territorial claims.
Dendias emphasized that the Hellenic Navy ensures Greek sovereignty in the Aegean. “It also guarantees the sovereignty and sovereign rights of Hellenism at sea.” The minister described the sea as “the natural space of Hellenism, the natural domain of the Greeks.”
The defense plan signals Greece’s commitment to maintaining stability against perceived threats while reinforcing its military capabilities.
During the same event, Vice Admiral Eleftherios-Dimitrios Katarras, chief of the Hellenic Navy General Staff, spoke more specifically about programs aligning with the Navy’s new structure.
These include the FDI frigate program, with steps under way to acquire a fourth frigate, Romeo-type helicopters, Island-class patrol vessels, the modernization of MEKO-class frigates, submarines, and fast attack craft, as well as the renewal of the fleet’s guided missiles and torpedoes.
Greece is also exploring participation in the Constellation-class frigate program and pursuing high-value innovative projects. All defense enhancement programs, including those for the armed forces overall, will be officially announced early next year.
Dendias also acknowledged the increasing importance of personnel support within the armed forces.
Recent measures include special compensation for naval crews involved in missions, demonstrating the government’s recognition of their critical contributions.
Ankara has frequently criticized Dendias, portraying him as an obstacle to rapprochement efforts, a narrative that observers see as more reflective of Turkiye’s domestic political strategies than reality.
Vassilis Nedos-Kathimerini
