The parade takes place in the presence of numerous high-ranking dignitaries. Credit: Greek Reporter
Thousands gathered in Thessaloniki for this year’s military parade on the anniversary of “OXI” Day, which commemorates the decisive “No” given by Greek Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas to an Italian ultimatum on October 28, 1940, leading to Greece’s entry into World War II and symbolizing national resistance.
The parade takes place in the presence of numerous high-ranking dignitaries: President of the Hellenic Republic, Konstantinos Tasoulas, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, the Ministers of Defense for both Greece and Cyprus, the leaders of the opposition parties PASOK and SYRIZA, representatives of other political parties, the Mayor of Thessaloniki, and the leadership of the Hellenic Armed Forces.
President of the Hellenic Republic, Konstantinos Tasoulas, attends the parade in Thessaloniki. Credit: Greek Reporter
The parade is not just a historical tribute, but a significant showcase of military innovation, particularly featuring advanced Greek-made defense technology designed for modern warfare, with a strong emphasis on Greek-made anti-drone and AI-enabled systems.
Counter-drone and electronic warfare systems showcased at the “OXI” parade
The parade is expected to feature several key Greek-built systems designed to neutralize the growing threat of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs):
“Kentauros” (Centaur) Anti-Drone System: The Greek-made system, which has been successfully tested on Hellenic frigates participating in “Operation Aspides” in the Red Sea. It has proven effective in thwarting attacks by Houthi drones.
“Hyperion” (Υπερίων) Electronic Warfare Weapon: The public will be introduced to this electronic warfare weapon, which is capable of shooting down enemy drones. It is designated for use by surface units of the Hellenic Navy.
Robotic EOD System: Also on display would be a robotic system dedicated to the neutralization of improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
Aerial Assets and Ground Armor
The aerial and ground components of the parade will highlight modern protection and intelligence capabilities:
Drones and AI-Enabled UAVs: The parade will feature the Greek-manufactured “Archytas” drone, alongside a variety of mini-drones from the Hellenic Naval Academy. Additionally, Greece will showcase unmanned and autonomous helicopters, as well as Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) UAVs that utilize Artificial Intelligence capabilities.
Upgraded Armor: The Hellenic Army will feature its Leopard main battle tanks equipped with special “cages” designed to protect the tank turrets against potential top-down missile or drone strikes.
Among other systems, the parade will include a range of missiles and latest-generation guided bombs with high operational capabilities.