Military upgrade to the tune of €28 bln
Defense Minister Nikos Dendias presented a comprehensive 12-year defense modernization program to Parliament on Thursday, aimed at enhancing Greece’s military capabilities from 2025 to 2036.
The €28 billion plan includes a base budget of €25 billion, with an additional €3 billion expected from fiscal flexibility under the European “ReArm Europe” initiative.
The key components of the defense overhaul include “Achilles Shield,” a cutting-edge multilayered defense system powered by artificial intelligence to protect Greece from air, sea and underwater threats.
Additionally, the Greek military will invest in new missile systems for artillery, capable of long-range strikes. Talks with the US are ongoing to upgrade existing launchers and acquire new ones, such as the HIMARS system.
The Hellenic Navy will acquire two FREMM frigates. Dendias confirmed interest in the FREMM frigate class after recently inspecting one in Piraeus.
Moreover, in addition to the three FDI frigates, the plan for the Hellenic Navy places particular emphasis on long-range air defense, as well as the capability to launch cruise missiles (Scalp Naval) for strategic strikes up to 1,000 kilometers.
The program also includes the modernization of existing fleet units, specifically the MEKO frigates, Type 214 submarines, and fast patrol boats.
For the Air Force, the program calls for a streamlined fleet of F-35, Rafale and F-16 Viper aircraft.
The plan includes phasing out older models like the F-4 Phantom and Mirage 2000-5, with potential upgrades for existing F-16s.
Opposition parties criticized the government for a lack of transparency and demanded more detailed briefings on the defense program.
The proposal also emphasizes strengthening domestic defense innovation, including the acquisition of military-grade satellites and new cyberwarfare capabilities.
The program, which is expected to significantly boost Greece’s defense readiness, highlights the country’s commitment to modernizing its armed forces in response to evolving security threats.
Kathimerini
