In an interview with “Naftemporiki”, Nikos Dendias, the Minister of National Defense, discussed the evolving framework of the service, Greek-Turkish relations, the domestic defense industry, and the “Agenda 2030”.
Dendias addressed Turkey’s ambition to join the EU’s SAFE program, stating: “Partners must determine the kind of Europe they envision. A Europe without principles, values, and respect for international law is unacceptable. It’s also inconceivable for countries that pose threats to EU member states or do not acknowledge their existence to participate in Europe’s rearmament efforts, particularly driven by ‘economic interests,’ which could turn certain nations into the ‘Iphigenes’ of Western values.”
Regarding Greek-Turkish relations, he noted: “Concerning the notion of a ‘good atmosphere,’ I must emphasize that Turkey’s narrative lacks credibility. I trust our partners will not view it as such, especially given the ongoing threat of war against Greece, the Turkish-Cypriot memorandum, a negative stance on resolving the Cyprus issue contrary to UN Security Council resolutions, and an expanding agenda based on the revisionist ‘blue homeland’ doctrine. Turkey cannot claim tranquility while reacting to the Greek-Cypriot electrical interconnection issue.”
On the “Agenda 2030,” he explained: “It represents more than just a strategic intention or a political statement; it’s a comprehensive, institutionally grounded long-term defense reform. It reflects Greece’s commitment to developing the most robust and technologically advanced Armed Forces. It encompasses a holistic approach to redefining our operational doctrine, restructuring the military branches, and integrating new technologies into our planning.”
He further elaborated: “Key initiatives to bolster our national deterrence include the Achilles Shield (a comprehensive strategy for countering threats using artificial intelligence), operational integration of the F-35 fighter jets, full operational employment of FDI frigates, net-centric Command & Control structures, enhanced cybersecurity capabilities, and the new Force Structure implementation. The Agenda 2030 is developed in line with the European framework, aligning with the European Commission’s Readiness 2030 initiative and the evolution of the ReArm Europe plan announced in March 2025. In summary, Agenda 2030 is not just a document to be shelved; it is a new concept through which Greece aims to become a cornerstone of security for the EU and the broader region.”
Regarding drones, the Defense Minister stated: “We are undertaking measures to enhance training in countering UAVs. Armed Forces personnel will participate in training programs at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, under the Joint Counter-small Unmanned Aircraft Systems University, gaining specialized insights that will inform the establishment of a similar center in Greece. Counter-UAV scenarios are integrated into all military training exercises, improving our units’ readiness and adaptability to contemporary threats. As part of the upcoming changes, all conscripts will learn to operate both drone and anti-drone systems.”
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