Greece orders 60 police buses from Turkiye

The procurement is intended to replace an ageing fleet used by Greece’s riot police units, known as YAT and YMET. The reported purchase has drawn attention because the vehicles will be manufactured in neighbouring Turkiye, amid longstanding political tensions between the two countries.

Greek media question government decision

According to Star, Greek media outlets have criticised the order, arguing that it will channel millions of euros into the Turkish industry and economy instead of supporting domestic manufacturers.

The reports questioned why the Greek government had not explored opportunities to involve local companies in the procurement process. They suggested that components and equipment, including seats, refrigerators and other fittings, could potentially have been sourced from Greek suppliers.

The criticism also focused on the government’s stated ambitions to strengthen domestic industrial capabilities.

New buses to improve officers’ working conditions

According to the reports cited by Star, the new buses are expected to feature air conditioning, safety-belt-equipped seats, a washroom, a refrigerator and a toilet.

The equipment is intended to improve working conditions for police officers who spend extended periods inside vehicles during lengthy operations and deployments between cities.

The vehicles are also reported to include reinforced windows and specialised equipment. However, details regarding additional armour or specific structural modifications have not been confirmed.

Ageing fleet prompts replacement

The Attica police union warned in June that the relevant units were still using buses manufactured in 2003, highlighting the need to modernise the fleet.

At the time, plans reportedly envisaged the procurement of around 40 new buses, while the overall requirement was estimated at 65 vehicles.

The latest reported order for 60 buses could meet a substantial portion of that requirement.

The purchase has reignited debate in Greece over public procurement, domestic industrial development and the economic implications of purchasing vehicles manufactured in Turkey.

Source: Star newspaper, Türkiye.