Greek Armed Forces Push for Enhanced UAV Integration Amid Industry Challenges

The Greek Armed Forces are advocating for the greater integration of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) into their operational planning, building on nearly two decades of pioneering use of these technologies.

Despite this early adoption, the Greek defence industry has struggled to maintain a competitive edge and develop the necessary technological infrastructure, leading to missed opportunities and financial losses.

The economic downturn between 2009 and 2019 was cited as a key factor in the stagnation of investment in UAV technology, even as the global market surged and the effectiveness of UAVs in both civilian applications—such as forest protection—and military operations in conflict zones like the Middle East and Ukraine became evident. Notable exceptions included a European Union-funded initiative aimed at developing UAVs for civilian use in natural disaster management, coordinated by INTRACOM Defense and involving Greek universities.

A pivotal moment for the UAV sector in Greece came in 2019 with the establishment of the National Military Authority for Airworthiness (NMAA) and the activation of the European Defense Industrial Development Programme (EDIDP). Greece submitted a proposal for the European Low Observable Tactical Unmanned Aircraft System (LOTUS) project, which ultimately secured €9.7 million in funding through a contract signed in November 2020 between the European Commission and INTRACOM Defense.

The LOTUS initiative marks a significant step toward enhancing Greece's domestic UAV manufacturing capabilities. The project is being executed by an international consortium led by INTRACOM Defense, featuring participation from various Greek institutions, including Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and the University of Patras, as well as partners from Cyprus, Spain, and the Netherlands. The UAVs are designed to meet NATO standards, with a focus on safely integrating into civilian airspace.

As Greece aims to bolster its UAV capabilities, the role of the NMAA and the Ministry of National Defence will be crucial in ensuring compliance with NATO certification criteria and addressing the increasing global regulations on flight safety.

While much media coverage has centered on the operational successes and technical specifications of UAVs, experts urge that key factors such as ease of use, maintenance, and operational safety procedures must also receive attention. These considerations are vital for any future UAV procurement, especially as Greece prepares for NATO and European-certified systems to operate in its airspace.

The Greek UAV industry appears to be on the brink of revitalization, with various Greek companies, including EAB, ALTUS, and UCANDRONE, presenting new UAV designs and innovations. One standout proposal is the ATTALUS-LM (AnTi Tank Loitering Munition System), which emphasizes collaboration among Greek private and public sector companies.

Designed with the needs of the Greek Armed Forces in mind, the ATTALUS-LM promises advanced reconnaissance, surveillance, and targeting capabilities. It boasts a 1.4 kg anti-tank warhead and features a 50 km communication range. Notably, it can be launched from a wheeled or tracked vehicle and can be assembled and operated rapidly, highlighting its operational flexibility.

(Source: Doureios)