Media: Greece to invest €28 billion in military rearmament

Greece has launched a significant rearmament initiative in response to escalating tensions with Türkiye, citing an "existential threat" and framing the move as a casus belli (reason for war). 

The country’s defence strategy is heavily influenced by public pressure, with Greece taking steps to bolster its military capabilities.

Turkish newspaper Türkiye reports that Greece will invest 28 billion euros over the next 12 years, from 2025 to 2037, to modernize its defence systems and fill existing gaps, as per Caliber.Az.

The ambitious plan centres on acquiring advanced technological systems, including the creation of an underwater threat detection network, in collaboration with local companies through the Hellenic Center for Defence Innovation (ELKAK).

Among the key components of the plan are the procurement of 20 fifth-generation F-35 fighter jets and the launch of the Achilles Shield project, which includes a comprehensive defence system against air, missile, and drone threats. Greece also announced plans to purchase new frigates from France and Germany, Island-type patrol ships from the U.S., and an Iron Dome-style missile defence system from Israel. Additionally, Greece will continue upgrading its existing fleet of F-16 fighter jets to the F-16 Viper, though the upgrade of 38 F-16 Block 50 aircraft is currently pending approval due to financial constraints.

Military expert Turan Oğuz has raised concerns about the focus of Greece’s rearmament program, pointing out that much of the investment is directed toward acquiring platforms rather than ammunition. Oğuz noted that, while Greece has invested in one of the world’s most advanced submarines, it has failed to purchase heavy torpedoes for the past 15 years.

"The Greeks purchased 24 French Rafale fighter jets but only 36 Meteor missiles for them," Oğuz said. "They haven't ordered new missiles for the F-35 or F-16. There is a major shortage of ammunition. You can buy a gun, but if you don't buy the ammo, the gun is useless."

Oğuz further questioned whether Greece would be able to complete the entire rearmament program within the allocated 28 billion euros, expressing doubt about whether the country could meet its goals. He also criticized the air defence systems planned for purchase from Israel, suggesting that with a budget of about 2 billion dollars, Greece would not be able to create a defence system capable of protecting the entire nation. Oğuz described this as more of a symbolic gesture than a practical solution.

In his final assessment, Oğuz emphasized that the available ammunition for Greece’s military would not be sufficient to sustain even 48 hours of full-scale warfare, casting doubt on the overall effectiveness of the country’s ambitious defence plans.

By Tamilla Hasanova