Greece has signed new contracts to develop domestically produced military drones, along with two related defense technologies, in another step toward strengthening its homegrown defense industry.
The agreements, announced by the Ministry of National Defense and the Hellenic Center for Defense Innovation, include three drone systems selected after field tests during the “Parmenion ’25” military exercise.
Greece’s military drone projects move to the next stage
During the exercise, the armed forces tested three drone prototypes and selected them for further development.
Three Greece’s companies then signed contracts based on operational requirements and adjustments set by the military.
Additional testing is planned before any of the systems becomes a final product and enters the armed forces’ operational planning.
Loitering munition heads toward production
In a separate move, authorities approved the industrial development of a loitering munition drone created by the armed forces’ innovation and technology center.
The system has already undergone testing and evaluation by Special Warfare Command personnel, including flight trials and checks on the safe use of the explosives it carries.
Officials said the next step will turn the drone into a fully industrial product for direct integration into the armed forces’ arsenal.
Centaurus upgrade expands counter-drone role
Another contract focuses on expanding the operational capabilities of the electronic warfare and counter-drone system Centaurus.
Officials said the upgrade aims to improve the system’s effectiveness against high-value targets and support its full operational use by Hellenic Navy surface units.
Centaurus is already installed on the frigate Psara and has recorded a confirmed interception of a Houthi drone in the Red Sea during the EU’s Aspides mission.
Greece pushes ahead with military drones and defense innovation
The new contracts reflect a broader lesson from modern battlefields, where relatively low-cost unmanned systems can deliver significant operational value.
Defense Minister Nikos Dendias said the unstable geopolitical environment and conflicts in the wider region highlight the importance of innovation and advanced technologies.
The agreements also mark another step in Greece’s effort to build a domestic defense innovation ecosystem that can respond more quickly to military needs.