Greece’s top national security body convened on Monday under Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, approving a series of major defense programs while also appointing new leadership for the country’s coast guard.
According to government sources, the Government Council for Foreign Affairs and Defense (KYSEA) was briefed on the latest diplomatic and military developments in Iran and the wider Middle East. The update was delivered by Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis and Defense Minister Nikos Dendias.
New Coast Guard Chief Appointed
KYSEA selected Vice Admiral Christos Kontorouchas as the new head of the Hellenic Coast Guard, succeeding Vice Admiral Tryfon Kontizas, whose tenure was widely regarded as successful.
Kontizas is expected to assume a new role within the Ministry of Citizen Protection, where he will lead a newly established General Secretariat for Critical Entities.
Major Defense Programs Approved
Following the meeting, Dendias confirmed that a broad package of defense procurement and modernization programs had been approved.
Among the key initiatives is the advancement of a multi-layered national defense system designed to counter drones, aircraft, and ballistic threats. The system forms part of the broader “Achilles Shield” concept, which integrates advanced command and control capabilities.
“We are entering a new era,” Dendias said, underscoring the strategic importance of the program.
Naval and Air Force Upgrades
KYSEA also approved the long-delayed modernization of Greece’s MEKO-class frigates, ensuring that four vessels will meet modern operational requirements.
At the same time, infrastructure projects linked to Greece’s future acquisition of F-35 Lightning II aircraft were given the green light, with the first deliveries expected from the United States in 2028.
Dendias also highlighted plans to upgrade existing F-16 Fighting Falcon Block 50 jets to the advanced F-16 Viper standard. Once completed, Greece is expected to operate more than 100 Viper-class aircraft alongside Rafale and F-35 fighters.
“This will make Greece’s air force one of the most powerful in Europe,” he said.
Transport Fleet and Capability Recovery
The council approved continued support for Greece’s C-27J Spartan fleet through a follow-on maintenance program.
Dendias noted that when the current government took office, the country had limited operational transport aircraft. Today, that number has been restored to 12.
Future plans may include the acquisition of two to three next-generation transport aircraft, pending parliamentary review.
Boost for Domestic Defense Industry
Government sources emphasized that all approved programs include a requirement for at least 25% participation by Greece’s domestic defense industry.
Foreign contractors will also be required to provide access to source code, ensuring meaningful technology transfer and strengthening Greece’s local defense capabilities.
Regional Context
The council also reviewed ongoing developments in Iran and the broader Middle East. However, Dendias declined to comment publicly on the situation.
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