Greece will announce its new 2025-year defense program covering the years 2037-12 in the Greek Parliament on March 18, 2025. This program, which will be announced by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, will be followed by detailed statements by Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias. The new defense program will be an important turning point for the modernization and strategic power increase of the Greek Armed Forces.
25 Billion Euro Budget and Long-Term Defense Procurement Plan
The Long-Term Defense Acquisition Plan (ΜΠΑΕ), officially announced by the Greek Ministry of Defense, has a budget of 25 billion euros. This budget will include payments for defense projects carried out since 2019. The plan aims to increase Greece's defense power and strengthen its strategic position in the region.
Major Investment in Naval Modernization
The new defense program centers on the modernization of the Hellenic Navy. In this context, important projects include the modernization of the MEKO 200HN frigates, the purchase of the 4th FDI HN frigate and the addition of the Scalp Naval cruise missiles to the inventory. In addition, projects such as the renewal of the Type 214 submarines and the modernization of the Super Vita-class fast patrol boats are also prominent in the program. Greece is also being considered for participation in the US’s next-generation Constellation-class frigate program and the European frigate (EPC) project. These projects are expected to mature between 2030 and 2037.
New F-35 and Modernization Projects for the Air Force
Greece also aims to make a major investment in the modernization of its Air Force. In this context, the procurement of F-35A fighter jets, new air-to-air and air-to-ground munitions for the F-16 and F-35A, and the modernization of the F-16 Block 50 aircraft are planned. In addition, a budget of €3 million is planned for the maintenance and support agreements for the Rafale F600R fighter jets. Another important step for the future of the Air Force is the creation of a new Rafale fleet and the retirement of the Mirage 2000-5 Mk2 aircraft. Greece also plans to replace its S-300 PMU1 air defense systems and Velos short-range air defense systems.
Land Forces and New Armored Vehicles
The Greek Land Forces will also receive their share of this comprehensive modernization plan. Projects include the modernization of the existing tank fleet for the Land Forces, the modernization of new Israeli-made Multiple Rocket Launcher Systems (MLRS) and RM-70 rocket systems. Investments will be made for Armored Personnel Carriers (TOMA) and new generation general-purpose wheeled military vehicles. In addition, 40% of the Land Forces budget will be allocated to new air defense systems. In this context, the purchase of a new Israeli-made air defense system to replace the OSA AK/AKM and TOR M1 systems is planned.
Electronic Warfare and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
The Greek Land Forces are planning to purchase electronic warfare systems and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to further advance their defense strategy. These developments aim to make Greece’s defense force more sophisticated and provide a more effective defense against threats in the region.
Defense Cooperation and Joint Projects with NATO
Greece’s ongoing armament drive since 2019 is being taken even further with this new 12-year plan. Orders for Rafale fighter jets, FDI HN frigates and F-35s will significantly increase the country’s air and naval power. Defense investments focus not only on weapons purchases but also on modernizing existing inventory. Greece plans to strengthen international defense cooperation and take more part in joint projects with NATO. This is expected to gain an important position in terms of both regional security and global defense cooperation.
A Strong Greek Defense Strategy
Greece’s new defense program, covering the years 2025-2037, will not only increase the country’s military power but will also make significant contributions to regional security. Investments in the Navy, Air Force and Land Forces will make Greece a strong military actor at the regional level. In addition, Greece’s defense cooperation and relations with NATO will also deepen during this process.
