Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is presenting the country’s long-term defense strategy and armament program to Parliament today, outlining a military transformation driven by technological advancements and modern warfare.
Mr. Mitsotakis will emphasize two main pillars: strengthening national defense through ongoing and planned military procurements, and integrating cutting-edge technology into the armed forces.
Key upgrades include drones, advanced radar systems, missile and anti-submarine defense, and the "Achilles Shield" anti-drone air defense system, a project involving collaboration with Israel.
The second pillar focuses on cyber defense and modern cyber warfare tactics, drawing lessons from the war in Ukraine.
The government plans to enhance military capabilities through collaborations with research institutions and Greek defense firms, fostering innovation and developing domestically produced weapons systems.
A key principle of the revamped program is the active participation of Greece’s domestic defense industry. Mr. Mitsotakis is expected to declare that "no procurement will take place without Greek-made components or Greek workforce involvement."
International defense contractors will be required to partner with local industries, including Hellenic Aerospace Industry, shipyards, and Greek Defense Systems.
The government is reviewing a proposal from French defense giant Group Naval to establish a production line in Greece.
Mr. Mitsotakis will also address internal party concerns following the initial exclusion of security forces from recent military salary increases.
He is expected to outline a broader package of measures and explain the timing and rationale behind the pay raises announced by Defense Minister Nikos Dendias.
He will stress the importance of defense and stability in Greece’s geopolitical strategy, while acknowledging the need for continued economic growth.
While Mr. Mitsotakis will present the broad outlines of the defense program, classified details will be shared in a closed-door briefing for Parliament’s Defense and Foreign Affairs Committee, led by Mr. Dendias, in the coming weeks.
By Yiannis Kantellis