Greece is moving forward with a large-scale modernization program for its coast guard, including a new digital operations center, advanced surveillance systems, unmanned vehicles and new patrol vessels.
The plans were outlined by Shipping and Island Policy Minister Vassilis Kikilias, who said tenders are already underway for a next-generation operations center designed to support real-time maritime monitoring and crisis management.
New digital operations center with AI capabilities
According to the minister, the new operational headquarters will replace infrastructure that has remained largely unchanged since the 1980s.
The upgraded center will feature artificial intelligence capabilities and integrate data from drones, cameras, sensors, satellite imagery and multiple information sources, providing coast guard leadership with a real-time operational picture.
Officials say the system is intended to improve decision-making during emergencies and strengthen maritime security operations.
Focus on migration, energy security and maritime surveillance
The new operational doctrine of the coast guard will focus on several key areas, including tackling irregular migration, combating illegal fishing and monitoring marine protected areas.
Authorities also aim to strengthen the protection of critical energy infrastructure, including floating storage and regasification units (FSRUs), offshore drilling activities and underwater cable networks.
New ships, drones and unmanned systems
As part of the broader “Aegis 2” modernization program, Greece plans to launch all major tenders by the end of the summer.
These include the procurement of two 80-meter offshore patrol vessels intended to operate south of Crete and across the Eastern Mediterranean, along with ten high-speed pursuit boats and six coastal patrol vessels.
The government is also moving ahead with the acquisition of unmanned surface vessels, underwater drones and aerial drones, all of which will be integrated into the new operations center.
Maritime monitoring systems upgraded
The modernization plan also includes upgrades to maritime traffic monitoring and integrated sea surveillance systems.
Officials say the Vessel Traffic Management Information System (VTMIS) will improve monitoring of ship movements, maritime traffic management and navigation safety, effectively serving as the “eyes” of the coast guard at sea.
A separate integrated maritime surveillance system will provide broader monitoring of sea borders and operational coordination, including cooperation with the Ministry of National Defense.
Illegal fishing and port investments
The minister also addressed concerns over illegal fishing activities by Turkish fishing vessels, saying the issue has already been raised with the European Union’s fisheries commissioner.
He stressed that Greece’s maritime borders are also European borders and said fishing remains a vital sector for local communities.
In addition, Kikilias referred to plans for the development of the port of Elefsina through an international tender process, describing port infrastructure as an important driver of local economic growth and investment.
