Defense Minister Dendias Announces Comprehensive Overhaul of the Military Structure and Personnel Compensation

Greek Minister of National Defense Nikos Dendias today unveiled a sweeping set of reforms to the structure and operations of the Hellenic Armed Forces, including significant pay increases for conscripts, the consolidation of military bases, and major changes to national service procedures.

During the official presentation of the “New Phase” of the Armed Forces’ structural transformation, Minister Dendias emphasized the urgency of modernizing the defense system in response to what he described as a “visible threat.”

Compensation for Conscripts to Rise Dramatically

One of the most impactful announcements was the dramatic increase in the monthly allowance for conscripts, rising from a symbolic €8.80 to €100 for those serving in remote or frontline areas, and €50 for those stationed in mainland Greece. Dendias noted that this change represents a staggering 1,036% increase in some cases.

The pay raises, which also apply to naval personnel, cadets, and military academy students, are set to be legislated soon, but will retroactively take effect from October 1, 2026.

Conscription to Be Limited to the Army from 2026

Another major change is the reform of military conscription: starting in 2026, all draftees will serve exclusively in the Hellenic Army. The Navy and Air Force will no longer receive conscripts, with exceptions made only for specialized roles such as ship captains and aircraft engineers. Ground forces will also take over facility security duties previously managed by the other branches.

A new legislative package outlining the details of this reform is expected to be presented in September.

Base Consolidations and Structural Changes

The Minister announced the closure or merger of 45 additional military camps as part of a broader effort to streamline operations and improve efficiency. Most notably, the historic First Army Command (1η Στρατιά) will be abolished, with its responsibilities redistributed across four newly established high-level commands.

Dendias stated that this restructuring will save approximately 30,000 man-hours per month, allowing resources to be redirected toward operational readiness and strategic planning.

Boosting Defense Infrastructure and Autonomy

Plans are also underway to strengthen Greece’s defense posture with 522 new underground fortification projects—207 on the mainland and 315 on the islands—scheduled for completion within three years. Additionally, new drone command units will be established across all military branches to enhance modern warfare capabilities.

As part of a broader effort to make military careers more attractive, the government is investing in housing infrastructure. While only 799 military residences were built over the past two decades, the Defense Ministry aims to construct 1,059 new homes by August 2026. These projects will be funded through better management and development of the Armed Forces’ real estate portfolio.

Minister Dendias emphasized that transparency and cross-party consensus will be central to managing this real estate strategy. “Any reasonable proposal to enhance transparency—whether from the opposition or elsewhere—will be included in the legislative framework,” he said, underscoring the need for unity in matters of national defense.

A New Era for Greece’s Armed Forces

Concluding his remarks, Dendias highlighted the importance of long-term planning, referencing the submission of a 12-year defense procurement program—the first in Greece’s history.

He also cited several ongoing strategic initiatives, including the “Achilles’ Shield” program and ten key projects under the National Defense Industrial Strategy (ELKAK), as part of the government’s commitment to modernizing the Armed Forces amid growing regional security challenges.