Μake us preferred on Google Greece is advancing defense cooperation with Saudi Arabia, completing the delivery of new anti-submarine helicopters to its navy and modernizing the facilities of its Defense Ministry as part of several ongoing initiatives.
A Greek delegation arrived in Riyadh on Wednesday to participate in the bilateral cooperation mechanism on defense and security. The visit comes as the Hellenic Navy approaches the completion of its acquisition of seven MH-60R Seahawk helicopters and renovation work continues at the Ministry of National Defense headquarters in Athens.
Greece and Saudi Arabia discuss 19 defense initiatives
Representatives from Greece’s ministries of National Defense and Citizen Protection, along with officials from the National Cybersecurity Authority, are taking part in the meetings in Riyadh.
The fourth session of the relevant bilateral working group is scheduled for Thursday, November 5. Discussions will cover 19 initiatives included in the two countries’ cooperation plans.
The visit follows talks held in October by Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias with Saudi officials, during which the two sides discussed regional security and defense cooperation.
A key issue in the bilateral relationship remains the presence of a Greek Patriot missile battery in Saudi Arabia. The talks also include possible funding for the modernization of Greece’s own Patriot systems, as part of arrangements being considered in return for Athens’ military assistance to the kingdom.
Deputy Defense Minister Thanasis Davakis had initially been expected to join the delegation but canceled his trip because of an unexpected personal matter. The government nevertheless decided to proceed with the visit by the relevant officials to avoid delaying the scheduled discussions.
Navy prepares to receive final MH-60R helicopters
The Hellenic Navy is nearing completion of the delivery of seven MH-60R Seahawk anti-submarine helicopters, also known as Romeo helicopters.
Two more aircraft arrived in Greece on October 30, bringing the total number delivered to five. The remaining two are expected to arrive during November.
The helicopters are equipped with advanced sensors, dipping sonar, sonobuoys and weapons designed to detect and engage submarines. Their acquisition is intended to strengthen the Navy’s anti-submarine warfare capabilities.
Their operation alongside Greece’s new FDI frigates is also expected to improve the fleet’s operational capabilities and expand surveillance coverage in the Aegean Sea and the Eastern Mediterranean.
With the deliveries approaching completion, the focus will shift to crew training, technical support and the full operational integration of the new aircraft into the Navy.
Defense Ministry completes another phase of renovation
Meanwhile, the Ministry of National Defense inaugurated the renovation of the northern facade of its main building in Athens on Wednesday, November 4. The project was funded through a donation from Piraeus Bank and follows earlier work on the building’s main facade and surrounding grounds.
The architectural design was developed by artist and architect Costas Varotsos.
The latest phase included the installation of 1,308 aluminum louvers, extensive thermal insulation work, the rearrangement of outdoor air-conditioning units and the reconstruction of sidewalks. A new architectural lighting system was also developed in cooperation with lighting designer Eleftheria Deko.
The broader renovation plan also includes expanding green spaces, with 300 additional trees scheduled for planting. Work is continuing on the refurbishment of shared interior areas.
The projects aim to reduce energy consumption and improve working conditions for both military and civilian personnel at the ministry.
