Parliament is set to approve the procurement program for 35 Black Hawk (UH-60M) helicopters on Tuesday. Defense Minister Nikos Dendias emphasizes the importance of reaching a total of 200 4.5—and 5th-generation aircraft in Greece by 2030.
The Defense Minister visited the General Directorate for Defense Investments and Armaments (GDDIA) to review 15 prioritized military equipment programs.
Under the "Agenda 2030," the government plans to restructure the armed forces, focusing on acquiring fighter jets, enhancing the navy fleet, and promoting the domestic defence industry's involvement in autonomous systems and missile defence. Dendias clarified that the Hellenic Air Force aims to have 200 modern 4.5- and 5th-generation aircraft by 2030, gradually replacing 3rd- and 4th-generation aircraft, following the procurement of the 35 Black Hawks.
The government's objective is to bolster the defence industry and advance the production of advanced power multipliers to create a new reality for the Hellenic Armed Forces. Dendias also addressed plans to withdraw and sell Phantoms, F-16 Block 30, and Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets, highlighting previous unsuccessful attempts to sell the F-16.
Regarding the Navy, Dendias mentioned the new FDI frigates, plans for American Constellation frigates, and interim solutions. He announced upcoming legislation for the creation of a defence innovation ecosystem (Hellenic Innovation Development Center) and separate laws for the purchase and development of drones, anti-aircraft, and anti-drone systems.