The military parade in Thessaloniki took place in the presence of the President of the Republic, Konstantinos Tasoulas, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, the Defense Ministers of Greece and Cyprus, Nikos Dendias and Vasilis Palmas, the leaders of PASOK and SYRIZA, party representatives, Members of Parliament, the Mayor of Thessaloniki, and the leadership of the Armed Forces.

This year’s military parade carries the “scent” of the new era that the Armed Forces of our country are entering.

Among other things, unmanned aerial vehicles, advanced anti-drone systems, as well as artificial intelligence weapons are expected to capture the public’s attention.

Specifically, at the parade, the capabilities of the Greek-made anti-drone system “Kentavros” will be showcased up close. This system was successfully tested on Greek frigates participating in “Operation Shields” in the Red Sea, preventing attacks from Houthi drones.

Additionally, the public will be introduced to the electronic warfare weapon “Hyperion,” which has the ability to take down enemy drones and is intended for surface units of the Navy, as well as a robotic system for neutralizing improvised explosive devices.

At the tank level, there will be an opportunity to see Leopard tanks of the Army equipped with special “cages” that protect them against potential hits to the tank turret.

At the same time, unmanned and autonomous helicopters, UAVs, and vertical take-off drones utilizing artificial intelligence capabilities will also march.

Among other systems, the public will see up close a range of missiles and precision-guided bombs of the latest technology, with high operational capabilities.

Early in the morning, with 21 cannon shots from Lycabettus Hill, the celebrations for the national anniversary commenced.

There is strong police presence at Syntagma ahead of the student parade.

The Minister of Education, Sofia Sakharaki, laid a wreath.

In Thessaloniki, the national and political leadership attended the grand military parade.

In the presence of the President of the Republic, Konstantinos Tasoulas, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, and political leaders, the grand military parade for the national anniversary begins at 11:00.

Androulakis and Famellos absent from the memorial service at the Third Army Corps in Thessaloniki.