ATHENS, Greece (AP) — On Monday, Greece finalized a significant deal with France to acquire anti-ship missiles as part of a broader strategy to enhance its military capabilities amid ongoing tensions with neighboring Turkey. The agreement involves the purchase of 16 Exocet missiles, signed by Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias and French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu, who was on a brief visit to Athens. The financial details of the contract were not disclosed during their meeting.
This latest procurement marks another step in Greece's extensive military enhancement efforts, which have already included the acquisition of two dozen Rafale fighter jets and three Belharra-class frigates. Minister Dendias mentioned that negotiations are underway for the addition of a fourth frigate, and alongside these acquisitions, France is also supplying Greece with NH-90 military helicopters.
Greece has outlined a substantial defense spending plan, committing to invest 25 billion euros (approximately $27 billion) over the next decade to modernize its military. This modernization effort is focused on adapting to the demands of high-tech warfare, moving away from traditional defense systems toward more advanced, networked strategies that leverage mobile, Artificial Intelligence-powered missile systems, drone technologies, and sophisticated command units. This shift aims to reduce reliance on conventional military fleets, reflecting a transformative approach to national defense.
Although both Greece and Turkey are NATO allies, their relationship has been marked by deep-rooted disputes over territorial waters in the Aegean Sea and eastern Mediterranean. These conflicts have brought the two nations perilously close to military conflict several times over past decades. Minister Dendias emphasized this dynamic in joint statements with Minister Lecornu, stating, “Greece does not threaten, but is threatened,” underscoring the security concerns that underline the country's military procurement strategy.
Greece's military modernization initiative is a response to years of defense reductions that occurred during the financial crisis from 2010 to 2018. The current strategy encompasses all branches of the Greek armed forces and emphasizes collaboration with key allies, including France, Israel, and the United States, marking a significant shift in defense policy to address contemporary security challenges.
This agreement and the overall modernization program underscore Greece's determination to enhance its defense posture and readiness in a region characterized by geopolitical volatility. As military tensions with Turkey remain a pressing issue, Greece's strategic alliances and defense expenditures aim to secure its interests and maintain regional stability.
