Greek Minister of National Defense, Nikos Dendias, participated in a panel discussion centered on the modernization of the Hellenic Armed Forces, the revitalization of the domestic defense industry, innovation, and the creation of high-level job opportunities.
Dendias emphasized the dual incentives—ideological and practical—for young people to join the Armed Forces. Beyond patriotic duty, he highlighted the opportunities for a technologically advanced and fulfilling career. He pointed out that today’s military operates in highly innovative environments, handling advanced systems such as drones and counter-drone technologies, marking a departure from older, physically intensive military models.
Acknowledging issues such as resignations within the ranks, Dendias outlined efforts to retain personnel through financial incentives and system-wide reforms. He stressed improvements in military academies, including infrastructure upgrades—particularly the Hellenic Military Academy, which now offers one of the most advanced academic environments in Europe. Furthermore, reforms aim to close the salary gap between military cadets and their counterparts in other security services.
He also detailed measures to support military families—such as building over 1,000 new military residences annually, establishing nurseries, improving military
hospital services, and providing support for children with special needs and veterans. He reiterated the need for an “honest exchange” between the state and service members, noting that past conditions often lacked fairness and that financial support must be adequate for a decent quality of life.
Dendias highlighted the transformative potential of the defense industry for national development. The “Agenda 2030” strategy involves fostering innovation, expanding Greece’s industrial base, and producing specialized, high-tech jobs. He cited the example of the “Kentavros” (Centaur) system—an entirely domestic innovation that costs 40–50% less than foreign alternatives and is tailored to Greece’s specific defense needs.
He discussed a new conscription reform bill under development that will redefine military service, reserve forces, and the National Guard. The goal is to turn conscription into a valuable educational and training opportunity, rather than a burdensome obligation.
On the defense industry, Dendias mentioned efforts to increase Greek participation in defense procurement programs to at least 25%, up from virtually zero, leading to more jobs, state revenue, and technological development. He acknowledged the challenges of attracting skilled professionals to state-run defense firms like HAI (Hellenic Aerospace Industry), but stressed reforms such as performance bonuses and prioritizing state contracts to these companies.
He concluded with a strong emphasis on collective responsibility. Reforming the Armed Forces and defense infrastructure requires not only government action but broad political and societal support. The “Agenda 2030” vision is holistic, aiming to redefine Greece’s defense posture in the 21st century—not through isolated system acquisitions, but through a coherent and strategic transformation of philosophy and structure.
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