Greece’s Defense Minister, Nikos Dendias, is set to announce on Thursday the second phase of a sweeping reform program for the country’s Armed Forces. These reforms are part of the broader “Agenda 2030”, a strategic initiative aimed at modernizing and reorganizing the Greek military in both structure and function.
The upcoming announcements are expected to touch on nearly every aspect of the Armed Forces, from organizational changes to significant improvements in the daily lives of permanent personnel.
Housing and Infrastructure Improvements
A key part of the reforms will be the expansion of the military housing program. This follows the recent submission to Parliament of a bill allowing for the development of military-owned real estate. The proposed legislation includes the establishment of a National Defense Property Fund and a dedicated agency to manage and develop military property assets.
Additionally, new fortification works are planned for military facilities to bolster defense infrastructure.
Changes to Conscription
One of the most immediate changes will be an increase in the compensation paid to conscripts. The current symbolic monthly payment of €8.70 is set to rise significantly—up to €50 per month for those serving in mainland Greece, and €100 for those stationed in border regions.
Another major shift will begin on 1 January 2026: mandatory military service in the Air Force and Navy will be discontinued. From that point forward, all new conscripts will serve in the Army (Ground Forces).
The duration of military service is also being adjusted. Conscripts in urban centres will serve for 12 months, while those deployed to border areas will serve only 9 months. Changes in training practices have also been announced, although specific details remain forthcoming.
Unit Closures and Structural Consolidation
In line with previously announced efforts to phase out under-staffed units, further military bases are expected to close or merge. Minister Dendias has already addressed this issue publicly, stating, “We cannot have more military camps than the United States.”
More than 30 units are expected to be disbanded or consolidated, with the aim of boosting overall firepower and efficiency. Dendias pointed to current staffing imbalances, highlighting that some units in the Evros region are operating at just 30% capacity, while others in the Peloponnese are overstaffed at 130%.
A New Era for the Greek Armed Forces
These reforms mark a significant turning point for Greece’s defense policy. With a focus on efficiency, equity, and modernization, “Agenda 2030” represents a comprehensive effort to prepare the Greek military for the challenges of the next decade.
By reallocating resources, streamlining command structures, and improving conditions for personnel, the Ministry of Defense aims to create a more agile, responsive, and sustainable Armed Forces—fit for both current demands and future threats.
