Greece will enter 2026 in the midst of a sweeping overhaul of its armed forces, Defense Minister Nikos Dendias said on Wednesday, highlighting modernization, innovation, and investment in personnel amid shifting geopolitical conditions.
In a New Year’s address to military personnel, Dendias outlined the conservative government’s “Agenda 2030” military reform program, describing it as a comprehensive plan to modernize the armed forces, restructure their organization, strengthen the domestic defense industry, and improve career paths and benefits for service members. He called the armed forces “a key pillar of stability” in a region marked by uncertainty.
The minister said legislation already under discussion in Parliament would guide the transition to a new era for the military, covering careers, pay, military education, conscription, and the reserve system. “Human resources are the armed forces’ most important strength. This is the force multiplier,” he said.
Dendias also highlighted initiatives to support military families, including expanded housing, improved healthcare, and social support programs, stressing that family well-being is essential to the armed forces’ constitutional mission.
He reaffirmed the military’s role in safeguarding Greece’s sovereignty and assisting society during emergencies, noting that both the government and the public recognize and trust the armed forces’ mission.
“The Greek people know well that you are the guardians of every part of Greek territory and understand that, if necessary, you will do what is right. They honor you and trust you,” Dendias said.