Greece has launched a long-term defence modernisation programme to raise the local defence industry’s share in national defence expenditure to 25 per cent.
Greece has launched a long-term defence modernisation programme to increase domestic industry participation in military spending to 25 per cent by 2036. The roadmap includes major investments in procurement, infrastructure, and defence R&D to strengthen the Hellenic Armed Forces through national capabilities and disruptive technologies.
Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias and Chief of General Staff Dimitrios Hupis recently presented the 2025–2036 defence armament plan to the Parliament's Standing Committee on Armament and Agreements. According to Greek media, the plan focuses on optimising the current financial framework to enhance combat readiness through modern technologies and greater domestic industrial engagement.
Core objectives include acquiring new platforms, integrating satellite and command systems, establishing support infrastructure, and sustaining both legacy and future weapon systems. A prominent component is the “Achilles Shield,” a five-layer defence system designed to counter aerial, maritime, and subsurface threats through AI-enabled coordination across all domains. The system will offer integrated protection against aircraft, ballistic missiles, drones, ships, and submarines.
On 2 April, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis confirmed the scope of the plan during a parliamentary speech, announcing a €25 billion modernisation fund spanning 12 years. The programme will encompass procurement, domestic investments, system maintenance, and advanced research.
Author: Özgür Ekşi
