Athens, November 21 – Greece is nearing the completion of its defense procurement list, which will be submitted for funding under the European SAFE (Support for Ammunition Production) regulation. This initiative aims to bolster joint European rearmament efforts and promote industrial cooperation within the continent. The proposed list comprises systems already outlined in Greece’s 12-year Medium-Term Defense Equipment Planning program, addressing critical and immediate defense requirements. Greece anticipates receiving loans totaling approximately 788 million euros through the SAFE framework.
Key Procurement Projects Highlighted
Among the most significant projects identified for SAFE funding is the acquisition of new general-purpose vehicles. This includes a range of trucks and other wheeled platforms, crucial for replacing an aging fleet that currently handles heavy workloads. These vehicles are vital not only for traditional military operations but also for the extensive civil protection duties performed by the Hellenic Army, which frequently supports state emergency mechanisms. This extensive program has already garnered substantial interest from Greek companies collaborating with international firms, a prerequisite for SAFE participation. The project aligns with the broader European strategy to enhance military mobility, a long-standing requirement articulated by multiple defense leaderships over the past 10 to 15 years.
Modern Fighter Equipment and Anti-Tank Missiles
Furthermore, SAFE funding is expected to facilitate the acquisition of a ‘modern fighter’ equipment kit. This comprehensive kit includes essential items such as a helmet, a long-duration backpack, ballistic goggles, advanced night-vision devices, protective gear, and various additional components. While primarily involving Greek companies, this program has also attracted interest from Germany and Belgium. Recent reports indicate that Defense Minister Nikos Dendias discussed cooperation within the SAFE framework during his visit to Nicosia, where he met with his Cypriot counterpart, Vasilis Palmas.
Athens also plans to pursue SAFE funding, in collaboration with partners, for ground-launched anti-tank missiles for the Army, specifically focusing on TOW systems. The list also includes the upgrade of 122mm rockets for RM-70 multiple launchers, signaling a strategic intent to maintain existing RM-70 batteries even as new launchers, such as the Israeli PULS, are being procured.
Focus on Unmanned Systems and High-Technology Fields
The SAFE list additionally outlines a general requirement for new unmanned systems across both air and maritime domains. Greece and Ukraine have recently initiated discussions regarding the co-production of unmanned surface vessels on Greek territory, with potential plans for expanding into unmanned underwater systems. Domestic development in this area is already underway. Moreover, various consortiums have formed to pursue advancements in high-technology fields, including cyberwarfare and electromagnetic-spectrum operations, alongside the development of new advanced communication radios.
The ‘Aisios Oionos’ (Fortuitous Omen) tactical field exercise, conducted earlier this month in the Evros border region, underscores the practical application and urgent need for these modernization efforts. The exercise showcased the operational readiness and strategic importance of advanced military capabilities in Greece’s defense posture.
Defense Minister Nikos Dendias has been a key figure in driving these procurement initiatives, emphasizing the importance of modernizing Greece’s defense capabilities and fostering international partnerships. The focus on both military mobility and industrial cooperation highlights a comprehensive approach to strengthening national and European defense.
Source: https://www.ekathimerini.com/politics/foreign-policy/1287356/athens-finalizing-safe-procurement-list/
