Greece Unveils Overhaul of Armed Forces with Drone Defences, Modernisation of Navy

Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias outlined a comprehensive restructuring of the country’s Armed Forces on Thursday, introducing measures aimed at modernising Greece’s defence capabilities while addressing long-term security challenges.

Speaking before the Parliamentary Standing Committee on National Defence and Foreign Affairs, Dendias emphasised a strategic shift towards efficiency, innovation, and advanced technology, including the introduction of drone and anti-drone systems across the military.

Key elements of the plan include the consolidation of military bases and the integration of cutting-edge defence technologies. Dendias announced the closure of 137 military camps by 2025, citing financial constraints as the reason for not expanding the programme further. "We don't have the money to invest to grow the others and close another 250," he explained, but stressed that increasing unit density would enhance operational readiness.

Dendias highlighted the importance of equipping every army unit with anti-drone capabilities and stated that three of the four newly proposed types of battalions would have drone-flying capabilities. “We must enter the age of drones,” he said, signalling a shift towards next-generation warfare.

The plan also includes significant enhancements to the Greek Navy, which Dendias described as unprecedented in the history of the country. "The Navy will acquire strategic strike capabilities it has never had," he stated, adding that it will also gain enhanced air defence and power-projection capacities.

The reforms are part of Greece’s broader “Agenda 2030”, an ambitious roadmap to modernise the military in response to evolving security challenges. Dendias underscored the importance of aligning Greece’s defence posture with global technological advances, noting that the recently established Hellenic Defence Innovation Centre plays a central role in bridging the military’s needs with Greece’s growing defence technology sector.

In December, Greece will showcase its collaboration with French defence innovators in a high-profile joint event attended by French Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu. The two nations aim to strengthen ties in defence innovation, with Greece positioning itself as a hub for advanced military technology.

Major procurement and modernisation programmes were also announced, including upgrades to submarines, warships, and missile systems. Greece is collaborating with the United States on designing new frigates and with the European Union on corvettes and submarines. These projects are expected to generate €6-7 billion for the Greek shipbuilding industry over the next decade, according to Dendias.

“Our goal is to create a robust ecosystem of defence industries capable of supporting the Armed Forces and contributing to Greece’s strategic autonomy,” Dendias concluded.