The Greek government and armed forces are continuing to implement a wide-ranging military modernization drive aimed at strengthening deterrence and enabling long-range strike capabilities, all in the shade of recent and ongoing military conflicts, a Ta Nea article on Tuesday reported.
Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias was quoted as saying that a broader defense strategy includes the ability to deliver “sub-strategic” strikes against critical enemy infrastructure and a response across a full 360-degree perimeter, reflecting concerns that potential threats could emerge beyond the Aegean, including from the southwest.
Greece’s Minister of National Defense, Nikos Dendias, attends the naming ceremony and the hoisting of the Greek flag on the first of four FDI HN Belharra frigates joining the Hellenic Navy, the frigate F-601 “Kimon.” The ceremony took place at the facilities of Naval Group in Lorient, France, on Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025. (Hellenic Ministry of National Defense/Directorate of Information/EUROKINISSI)
Greek military planners have taken note of Turkey’s – a NATO ally on paper – expanding operational reach, including drone activity and a growing presence in strife-plagued Libya, which has prompted Athens to adapt its defense posture accordingly.
Central to the plan is a layered air defense system, dubbed “Achilles’ Shield,” designed to counter ballistic missiles, drones and other threats, while shifting away from older doctrines focused on large-scale ground offensives. Instead, the emphasis is on precision strikes against command centers and strategic targets using long-range missiles.
Greek frigates “Kimon”, right, and “Psara” near the port of Limassol, Cyprus, March 4, 2026. REUTERS/Yiannis Kourtoglou
New naval assets are also expected to play a key role.
For instance, four French-designed FDI frigates will be equipped with cruise missiles with ranges exceeding 1,000 kilometers, allowing long-range strikes. Greece is also moving forward with plans to acquire Italian-built Bergamini-class frigates, with an initial purchase of two vessels and an option for two more. The deal is under parliamentary review, with final approval expected by the government’s top defense body.
Aircraft upgrades and acquisitions are also finalized for the Hellenic Air Force. Dassault’s Rafale jets will armed with SCALP missiles, upgraded F-16 Viper warplanes will be equipped with long-range JASSM-ER missiles, and the planned arrival of stealthy F-35 Lightning II jets will expand Greece’s strike reach and survivability.
Additionally, Israel-made PULS rocket system systems are expected to provide precision strike capabilities at ranges up to 300 kilometers.
