The Hellenic Armed Forces, comprising the Hellenic Army, Navy, and Air Force, serve as the cornerstone of Greece’s national defense and regional security initiatives. As of 2023, Greece maintains approximately 142,700 active military personnel and 221,350 reservists, reflecting its commitment to robust defense capabilities.
Demographics and Economic Indicators
Greece has a population of about 10.4 million people and covers a land area of 131,990 square kilometers. In 2022, the nation’s defense budget was approximately $8.1 billion, constituting 3.69% of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This level of expenditure underscores Greece’s dedication to maintaining a formidable defense posture.
Hellenic Army
The Hellenic Army operates a diverse array of equipment, including approximately 1,365 main battle tanks, 6,143 infantry fighting vehicles and armored personnel carriers, and 4,840 artillery pieces. The inventory predominantly consists of imported weapons from Europe and the United States, with a limited number of domestically produced systems, particularly naval vessels. Notably, the domestically manufactured ELBO Leonidas armored personnel carrier exemplifies Greece’s indigenous defense production capabilities.
Hellenic Navy
The Hellenic Navy’s fleet includes various surface combatants, submarines, and support vessels. In recent years, Greece has prioritized modernizing its naval capabilities. In 2021, Greece agreed to acquire three Belharra frigates from France, with plans to negotiate the purchase of a fourth frigate to further enhance its naval strength. Additionally, the Navy is integrating advanced missile systems, such as the Scalp Naval cruise missiles, to bolster its maritime defense.
Hellenic Air Force
The Hellenic Air Force maintains a fleet of various aircraft, including fighter jets, transport planes, and helicopters. As part of its modernization efforts, Greece has initiated the procurement of up to 40 F-35 fighter jets from the United States, aiming to enhance its aerial combat capabilities. This acquisition complements existing assets and signifies a significant upgrade in the Air Force’s operational readiness.
Defense Modernization Initiatives
Greece is actively pursuing comprehensive defense modernization programs to address emerging security challenges. In collaboration with Israel, Greece is negotiating the development of a €2 billion anti-aircraft and missile defense system, akin to Israel’s Iron Dome, to establish a multi-layered air and drone defense network. Furthermore, Greece plans to procure Switchblade drones from the United States, aiming to enhance its unmanned combat capabilities and complement existing missile systems.
