Greece plans to spend over 25 billion euros on arms procurements by 2036, including new submarines, drones, satellites, and fighter jets. According to Reuters, the 12-year plan will be submitted to parliament in the coming weeks, citing three officials with knowledge of the matter.
The move is part of a broader effort to modernize Greece’s defense forces following years of austerity measures during the country’s 2009-2018 financial crisis. The plan also aims to counter growing security concerns in the eastern Mediterranean, where tensions with Turkey remain high over maritime borders, airspace, and energy resources.
Greece’s major arms procurement plan
According to sources involved in drafting the plan, Greece will acquire four new submarines, advanced air, sea, and underwater drones, and a communication satellite. The country will also purchase 20 F-35 fighter jets from the United States, with an option to buy 20 more in the future.
In addition to new acquisitions, Greece will upgrade its aging fleet of F-16 fighter jets to the advanced “Viper” model. The navy’s four German-made MEKO 200 frigates will also undergo modernization. Furthermore, up to six large patrol boats or corvettes will be constructed in Greek shipyards, according to a senior official familiar with the matter.
A significant portion of the defense budget will fund the development of a new anti-aircraft and anti-drone defense system, known as “Achilles Shield.” Greece is also proceeding with previously announced plans to purchase a long-range rocket artillery system capable of striking targets up to 300 kilometers away.
These systems will be strategically positioned along Greece’s northeastern border with Turkey and across the Aegean islands.
Greece’s growing defense commitments
Greece, a member of the European Union and NATO, already spends about 3% of its gross domestic product (GDP) on defense, nearly double the EU average.
The country’s military investments come as Europe faces increasing pressure to strengthen its defense capabilities. The continent’s 75-year-old alliance with the United States has become strained due to disputes over NATO spending and Washington’s shifting stance on Ukraine.
As a result, European leaders are discussing ways to boost military self-reliance, with growing calls for a common European defense strategy. Greece’s extensive military spending aligns with this shift, positioning the country as a key player in regional security.
Concerns over US weapons control
Greece’s decision to invest heavily in US-made F-35 jets comes amid renewed concerns about Washington’s control over exported weapons systems. A widely circulated theory suggests that the Pentagon may have the ability to remotely limit or disable F-35 aircraft sold to allies, as reported by Greek media.
This claim describes a hidden “kill switch” in the jet’s software that could restrict its use or even ground the aircraft if the US disapproves of certain military operations.
While US officials have dismissed such concerns, speculation about this potential security risk has raised alarms among several European nations that have invested in the advanced fighter jets.