Neighbor to Allocate 25 Billion Euros for Defense

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced that his country will allocate 25 billion euros for defense until 2037. Addressing the Parliament, Prime Minister Mitsotakis provided information on Greece’s long-term defense investments and policies. While discussing the resources of the long-term program, Mitsotakis emphasized that these resources are not only limited to investments and armament but also include investments to keep the country strong and stable in an unpredictable, ever-changing world. Pointing out the crises in Ukraine, the Middle East, and Syria, Mitsotakis indicated that the United States is also preparing for changes in its role within NATO. Mitsotakis warned that changing dynamics will lead to new challenges that the European Union (EU) will have to deal with, stating, “Therefore, investments in our defense capabilities are investments in our sovereignty and national honor.” Mitsotakis mentioned the new approaches being discussed in the EU’s defense budget, assuring that Greece will not abuse the flexibility that will be provided to EU countries in defense spending. Mitsotakis recalled that upon coming to power in July 2019, his New Democracy party faced a defense force that had not been invested in due to the economic crisis in previous years, highlighting investments made during their tenure, such as acquiring 24 Rafale fighter jets and 3 Belharra frigates. Addressing the 25 billion euro defense program, Mitsotakis stressed that investments were restricted during the economic crisis years, but now the Defense Minister is aware of the 25 billion euros available for the defense program. Discussing the basic principles of the new defense investment program planned by Greece, Mitsotakis underlined how the war in Ukraine highlighted changes in defense technologies, such as the use of drones and artificial intelligence, which should be included in the Armed Forces’ long-term planning. Mitsotakis emphasized the importance of renewable and upgradable flexible weapon systems in addition to engaging local added value in defense investments, stating that the participation of the Greek defense industry in all programs prepared by the National Defense Ministry should be addressed. Mitsotakis also mentioned that another basic principle of the new defense investment program covers the maintenance and repair of existing systems, as systems that are not maintained and repaired could lead to losses. Stressing the need for Greece to adapt to changing conditions worldwide, Mitsotakis reiterated, “We may be a small country in size, but we have great geopolitical significance. I would like to emphasize that we do not have aggressive but deterrent intentions because in an unstable international environment, we are responsible for maintaining our internal stability based on national sovereignty.” Mitsotakis stated that Greece’s defense policy has acquired both existential and developmental characteristics, adding, “There can be no prosperity without security. Security cannot exist without being financed by a strong economy.” Requesting support from opposition parties for the long-term program, Mitsotakis mentioned that Defense Minister Nikos Dendias will provide more detailed information on the content of the program to the relevant parliamentary committee in the coming days.