Greece’s top national security body convened Monday under Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, approving a series of key defense programs and appointing new leadership for the country’s coast guard.
According to government sources, the Government Council for Foreign Affairs and Defense (KYSEA) was briefed on the latest diplomatic and military developments in Iran and the broader Middle East. The update was delivered by Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis and Defense Minister Nikos Dendias.
New Coast Guard Chief Appointed
The council selected Vice Admiral Christos Kontorouchas as the new head of the Hellenic Coast Guard. He succeeds Vice Admiral Tryfon Kontizas, whose tenure was described as successful.
Kontizas is expected to take on a new role at the Ministry of Citizen Protection, leading a newly established General Secretariat for Critical Entities.
Major Defense Programs Approved
Following the meeting, Dendias announced that KYSEA had approved a range of defense procurement and modernization programs.
Among the most notable decisions is the advancement of a multi-layered defense system designed to counter drones, aircraft, and ballistic threats. The system is part of a broader initiative referred to as “Achilles Shield,” which includes command and control capabilities.
“We are entering a new era,” Dendias said, emphasizing the strategic importance of the program.
Naval and Air Force Upgrades
The council also approved the long-delayed modernization of Greece’s MEKO-class frigates. According to Dendias, the upgrade will ensure that four vessels are capable of meeting modern operational demands.
In parallel, infrastructure projects related to Greece’s future F-35 fighter jets were greenlit. The first aircraft is expected to be delivered by the United States in 2028.
The defense minister also highlighted plans to upgrade the F-16 Block 50 aircraft to the more advanced F-16 Viper standard. Once completed, Greece’s air force will operate well over 100 F-16 Vipers, alongside Rafale and F-35 jets.
“This will make Greece’s air force one of the most powerful in Europe,” Dendias said.
Transport Aircraft and Fleet Recovery
KYSEA also approved continued support for the country’s C-27 transport aircraft through a follow-on maintenance program.
Dendias noted that when the current government took office, Greece had limited operational transport aircraft. Today, the fleet has been restored to 12 aircraft.
He added that future discussions may include acquiring two or three new-generation transport planes, pending parliamentary briefing.
Boost for Greek Defense Industry
Government sources indicated that all approved programs reaffirm a requirement for at least 25% participation by Greece’s domestic defense industry.
Foreign contractors will also be required to provide access to source code, ensuring technology transfer and strengthening local expertise.
Regional Developments
While the council reviewed ongoing developments in Iran and the Middle East, Dendias declined to comment publicly on the situation.
