Defense Procurements at a Crossroads: Political Will,European Funds,and the Push for Greek Industry Inclusion

As anticipation builds ahead of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’ upcoming speech at the Thessaloniki International Fair (TIF), the spotlight is not only on economic measures, but also on potential announcements regarding long-awaited defense procurements. The Prime Minister has previously used the TIF stage to unveil major acquisitions, such as the Belharra frigates and Rafale fighter jets, making further declarations in this domain not unlikely.

With the National Armaments Program (EMPΑE) outlining Greece’s defense priorities for the next 12–20 years and backed by a €30 billion budget — alongside additional EU support via the SAFE mechanism — the pressure is mounting on the government to act swiftly. Escalating regional tensions and evolving military needs leave little room for further delays.

Stalled Plans and Political Bottlenecks

Despite repeated announcements over the past two years, the majority of large-scale defense programs remain in limbo. “Some of these programs should have started yesterday,” a senior defense official told newmoney.gr, pointing to the gap between political statements and actual implementation.

The Hellenic National Defence General Staff (GEETHA) and the individual branches of the military have already drawn up and costed priority lists, with several projects approved by the Council of Chiefs of General Staff (SAGE). However, many proposals still await final political clearance. Once greenlit, programs must go through the Government Council for Foreign Affairs and Defense (KYSEA), followed by negotiations with selected contractors — ultimately leading to signed contracts.

The Role of the New General Secretariat for National Security

Established in April and reporting directly to the Prime Minister’s office, the General Secretariat for National Security, led by Thanos Dokos, now plays a pivotal role in overseeing:

• All defense procurement processes
• Strategic planning of the Armed Forces and Security Forces
• Modernization and acquisition of defense systems

This body is expected to accelerate decision-making, bringing key defense initiatives closer to the executive branch and allowing for more centralized control of critical national security matters.

The Priority Programs: What Comes Next

Beyond the Belharra frigates and the partial upgrade of MEKO vessels, Greece is preparing to launch or negotiate several crucial defense projects:

• “Achilles’ Shield”: An integrated anti-missile and anti-drone defense system to protect key national infrastructure.
• Upgrade of existing submarines and participation in the construction of four new-generation submarines.
• Modernization of Roussen-class missile boats.
• Participation in the development of the European corvette program and potential procurement of U.S. Constellation-class frigates — though both remain uncertain in terms of timelines.
• Acquisition of MLRS artillery systems to strengthen capabilities in northern regions like Evros.
• Ongoing discussions regarding the purchase of two used FREMM-class Bergamini frigates from Italy, which are expected to become available before 2030.
• The high-profile F-35 fighter jet deal, which would follow:
  • The current upgrade of 83 F-16 Block 52+ aircraft to Viper standard
  • The planned modernization of 38 F-16 Block 50 jets

Greek Defense Industry: From Bystander to Stakeholder?

A central issue remains the inclusion — or exclusion — of Greek defense companies. At a time when the EU is rearming and countries like Turkey and Israel insist on domestic industry participation in all major defense procurements, Greece risks falling behind if it continues outsourcing entirely to foreign suppliers.

According to Tasos Rozolis, president of the Hellenic Manufacturers of Defense Materiel Association (SEKPY), the absence of a central management body has led to inefficiencies and missed opportunities. With €25–28 billion expected to be allocated through national and EU programs, domestic companies could benefit from €6–8 billion worth of contracts and partnerships over the next 12 years — including crucial technology transfers.

The Elusive 25%: From Promise to Legislation

One of the key expectations from the defense industry is the legal implementation of the 25% local participation rule— a government promise that currently exists only as an internal memo from the Ministry of Defense to the General Directorate for Defense Investments and Armaments (GDAEE).

Without formal legislation, there is a growing fear that Greek companies may again be sidelined, just as they were during the Belharra and Rafale deals, where only a handful of Greek firms were involved at the discretion of the French Naval Group.

 A Test of Strategic Commitment

The coming months will test the government’s resolve on multiple fronts — defense preparedness, industrial development, and the alignment of political promises with institutional action. The tools are in place: political will, European funding, and a structured national plan. What remains is the swift implementation of decisions that have long been overdue.

Source: pagenews.gr