Fri Apr 04 03:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Greece Unveils $27 Billion Reaarmament Program, Shifting Towards European Defence Autonomy

**Athens, Greece** – Greece has announced a significant 25 billion euro ($27 billion) multi-year rearmament program, marking a major shift in its defense strategy and becoming the first EU member to utilize relaxed defence spending rules. The ambitious plan, dubbed “Shield of Achilles,” will bolster Greece’s air and naval defenses with a multi-layered system protecting against missiles, ballistic threats, aircraft, ships, submarines, and drones.

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis described the program, part of a broader “Agenda 2030” military overhaul, as the most drastic transformation in the country’s military history. The move comes amid escalating geopolitical tensions in Europe and a perceived need to adapt to evolving warfare strategies.

Greece, a traditionally high defence spender due to its relationship with Turkey, will allocate 3% of its GDP to defense this year, exceeding the European average. The country has leveraged new EU initiatives, securing access to low-interest loans for defence upgrades as part of a broader 150 billion euro ($163 billion) EU fund aimed at strengthening European defence industries.

While previously relying heavily on US weaponry, Greece’s recent rearmament focuses on a balance between US and European systems, reflecting a growing emphasis on European defence autonomy. This includes the purchase of French Rafale fighter jets and Belharra frigates, equipped with advanced French weaponry such as Aster-30 hypersonic missiles. This diversification is intended to provide a “qualitative edge” over its adversaries, according to experts.

Despite the shift towards European partnerships, Greece is not abandoning its relationship with the US. The country continues to upgrade its F-16 fleet with Lockheed Martin and has ordered F-35 fighter jets. This balanced approach reflects a strategic decision to consolidate Greece’s position amidst shifting geopolitical dynamics and the needs of both the EU and the US in the strategically important Eastern Mediterranean region. A key element of the plan includes strengthening Greece’s domestic defence industry, with a significant portion of contracts awarded to Greek companies.

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