Greece is set to announce a major defense modernization plan on March 4th, according to Defense Minister Nikos Dendias. The €28 billion, 12-year program (2025-2037) will focus on integrating advanced technologies to enhance the capabilities of the Greek Armed Forces and address current deficiencies.
Key elements of the plan include:
- Air Power: Acquisition of 20 F-35 fifth-generation fighter jets and development of the “Achilles’ Shield,” a comprehensive air, missile, and anti-drone defense system.
- Naval Enhancements: Construction of a fourth FDI frigate, exploration of US Constellation-class frigates, upgrades to existing MEKO frigates, and acquisition of new submarines equipped with strategic weaponry.
- Land Forces: Increased integration of drones and consideration of offers for multiple rocket launcher systems.
- Underwater Defense: Development of a sensor network for underwater threat detection with the participation of Greek companies under the Greek Defense Innovation Center (ELKAK).
The plan earmarks an annual defense budget of €2-2.5 billion, adding to the €15 billion already invested since 2020. This increased spending aligns with recommendations from the US and EU to bolster defense capabilities. The EU is also considering excluding military spending from deficit calculations.
While the plan represents a significant technological leap for the Greek military, challenges remain. The Air Force faces ongoing maintenance issues with its aging transport aircraft and the finalization of the F-16 Viper self-protection system. An upgrade to 38 F-16 Block 50 jets is also uncertain due to budget limitations. Despite some delays, the modernization efforts aim to significantly improve the operational capabilities of all branches of the Greek Armed Forces in the coming years.
Achilles’ Shield, Defense, drones, ELKAK, EU, F-35, frigates, Greece, Greek news, military, modernization, submarines, technology, US