Athens, March 5, 2026 – Greek Minister of National Defence Nikos Dendias underscored the government’s fundamental constitutional obligation to protect Greek territory, its citizens, and the nation’s core interests, while also championing broader European security as EU citizens.
In recent remarks highlighting Greece’s evolving defense posture amid rapidly changing global threats, Dendias emphasized proactive measures already underway. “The government’s constitutional duty is to protect Greek territory, Greek citizens, and Greece’s national interests — as well as European interests, since we are also European citizens,” he stated. “We have taken the necessary measures.”
Central to this approach are key initiatives within the comprehensive “Agenda 2030” reform program for the Hellenic Armed Forces. Dendias pointed to “Achilles Shield” — Greece’s ambitious multi-layered air and missile defense system — alongside complementary efforts like the “Dome” concept and the overarching “Agenda 2030” framework. These programs, he noted, are proving indispensable as modern warfare evolves at pace, incorporating threats from drones, missiles, cyber domains, space, and maritime vectors.
“Achilles Shield,” often described as a holistic “defense dome” far more comprehensive than systems like Israel’s Iron Dome, integrates anti-missile, anti-aircraft, anti-drone, anti-ship, and anti-submarine capabilities. Valued at approximately €2.8 billion initially, it aims to create a networked, high-tech shield that frees up naval and air assets for broader strategic roles while enhancing deterrence in the Eastern Mediterranean.
“Agenda 2030” represents a fundamental transformation of Greece’s defense philosophy, initiated over the past two-and-a-half to three years. It includes reforms to conscription, reservist forces, command structures, domestic defense innovation, and international partnerships — notably with Israel for AI integration and technology transfer — to ensure at least partial indigenous production.
“Greece must adapt to these new realities, and our armed forces must be properly trained and prepared to face emerging threats,” Dendias asserted. “Recognizing these challenges early, we have already been moving in this direction for the past two and a half to three years, adopting a fundamentally new approach to national defense.”
The statements reflect Athens’ response to heightened regional tensions, including in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean, and align with broader NATO and EU security priorities. As “Achilles Shield” advances toward operational status in the coming years, it positions Greece as a more resilient actor in an increasingly unpredictable security environment.
Dendias: ‘Agenda 2030’ Strengthens the Bond Between Armed Forces and Greek Society