The official entry of the Greek Armed Forces into the drone era is set for 2025. Regional conflicts in the Southeastern Mediterranean and the Russian invasion of Ukraine have drastically altered the organizational philosophy of the Greek Armed Forces, which is now reflected in their New Structure, as developed by the Ministry of National Defense.

Both the low production cost and the reduction of human casualties, combined with optimal detection and neutralization of military and other targets, have made drones dominant at the operational level worldwide in recent years. This evolution is closely monitored by the Greek Pentagon’s strategic planners, especially since neighboring Turkey has developed various types of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) over the years, most notably the Bayraktar, aimed at reconnaissance and recording Greek military points of interest.

Given these circumstances, the New Structure of the Armed Forces, expected to be approved by the Government Council for Foreign Affairs and Defense (KYSEA) by 2025, incorporates the leading role of drones in modern conflicts and their multiple operational capabilities in combat support. Thus, drones are anticipated to become a fundamental part of unit equipment, as, according to information, the New Structure of the Armed Forces provides for:

• 3 Battalions equipped with anti-drone systems.
• 4 Battalions equipped with drones as part of their gear.

The Finnish Model
The new philosophy underlying the New Structure of the Armed Forces also necessitates new skills for their permanent personnel. However, the Ministry of National Defense’s plan goes beyond this, with a strategic goal of mass training in these new technologies, starting from mandatory military service for the widest possible number of conscripts. Specifically, the new framework for military service, expected to be unveiled in the first quarter of 2025, will combine intensive military training with digital training, following Finland’s example.

A pivotal moment in the Greek Armed Forces’ strategic orientation toward addressing hybrid threats and developing electronic warfare weapons was the visit of Defense Minister Nikos Dendias to Helsinki last February. During this visit, Mr. Dendias toured Finland’s Hybrid CoE (Center of Excellence for Countering Hybrid Threats), where he was thoroughly briefed by Finnish military officers on the training of conscripts and reservists. This training includes best practices and skills against hybrid threats, which are increasingly prevalent in modern conflict zones. Consequently, Greek conscripts are also expected to receive digital training, which, according to reports, will include the use and operation of drones. Their widespread adoption within the Armed Forces expands the scope of threats they can address in the future, if necessary.

The example of Ukraine has mobilized NATO as well, which included Kyiv in a Technical Interoperability Exercise for Counter-UAV Systems last September. The Alliance recognized the need to analyze data from the use of small drones during the Russian invasion, viewing UAVs as an “escalating threat.” Over 70 systems and technologies were tested during the exercise, highlighting the need for ongoing research and upgrading of NATO’s countermeasures.

The Anti-Drone Dome
Facing the complex challenges posed by drones and ballistic missiles, Greece plans to deploy a dual-purpose air defense dome by fall 2026. The dome will serve both anti-aircraft/anti-missile and anti-drone functions, as drones represent the main threat from neighboring countries, unlike rockets in Israel’s case.

The tender process for its construction is scheduled to launch in early 2025, with implementation set to begin in summer 2025. The Hellenic National Defense General Staff (GEETHA) might oversee the project as a strategic weapon system. This dual dome will provide comprehensive coverage across Greece, extending from remote border areas to major urban centers. A dedicated administrative structure is expected to oversee its operation.

Notably, the success of innovative weapons like Israel’s Iron Dome has forced states like Iran and groups like Hamas to adapt their operational tactics, significantly enhancing Tel Aviv’s defensive capabilities. Similarly, Athens’ dual dome aims to bolster deterrence rather than adopt an aggressive stance. Military experts believe it will send a strong deterrent message across the geopolitical landscape, complementing the development of a missile barrier across the Aegean islands.

Regarding the “Agenda 2030,” Defense Minister Nikos Dendias described it as more than a weapons acquisition program—”a fundamentally different approach.” He announced plans to build a missile defense shield in the Aegean as part of this agenda, stating, “This is a barrier capable of operating flexibly across the many islands we have, transforming them into units of power that will prevent or deter any attempt to disrupt the established status quo in the Aegean.”

Centaur Anti-Drone System Tested in Real Combat Conditions Against the Houthis in the Red Sea

Enter the “Centaur”
The simultaneous development of the dual dome, the enhancement of artillery power, and the introduction of drones and electronic warfare tools form a dynamic triad for the Greek Armed Forces in the 21st century. These initiatives align with efforts to foster future innovation through the Hellenic Defense Innovation Center (ELKAK). The leadership of the Ministry of National Defense has already set in motion the creation of a Greek defense ecosystem, including research projects spearheaded by Hellenic Aerospace Industry (HAI) following the success of the “Centaur” anti-drone system.

Initially developed for the Army, the Centaur system was later installed on Navy vessels, such as the MEKO-class frigate Psara, and tested in real combat conditions against the Houthis in the Red Sea. This first domestically produced anti-drone system will play a critical role in Greece’s anti-drone dome, according to the Defense Minister. The system successfully detects, tracks, and neutralizes UAV threats. It can even electronically disable targets autonomously, independent of the ship’s other systems, identifying drones targeting commercial and other fleets in the Red Sea.

Kamikaze Drones—The Loitering Ammunitions
The latest KYSEA meeting for the outgoing year provided a glimpse into what lies ahead in 2025. It approved the procurement of loitering munitions Switchblade 300 and Switchblade 600, which detect, lock onto, and attack targets. Known as “kamikaze drones,” these systems have been tested in Ukraine and the Middle East and are expected to be deployed along the Evros border and Aegean islands.

These small drones carry explosive warheads and are guided to their targets by operators. Notably, they can abort missions, retreat, or even self-destruct if operational conditions change, avoiding material or human losses. The Switchblade 300 is a portable UAV weighing 2.5 kilograms, fitting into a backpack. Its small size and silent flight make it nearly impossible to detect or intercept. The larger Switchblade 600 features an anti-tank warhead and greater range, capable of traveling 40 kilometers in 20 minutes and loitering for another 20 minutes, offering a total range of 80 kilometers.