In a significant move to bolster Greece’s maritime defense  and humanitarian efforts, Prime Minister Kyriakos  Mitsotakis addressed an official ceremony on September  2, 2025, marking the reception and integration of five high speed patrol boats into the Hellenic Coast Guard fleet.  Speaking alongside key government officials, naval  leadership, and local authorities, Mitsotakis underscored  the strategic and symbolic importance of the new vessels. 

“These state-of-the-art patrol boats represent much more  than an upgrade in maritime infrastructure,” Mitsotakis  said. “They reflect our ongoing commitment to extending  the rule of law across Greek waters and to defending our  nation’s borders while upholding our humanitarian  responsibilities.” 

The new vessels are designed with both defense and  humanitarian missions in mind. Equipped with ballistic  protection, remote-controlled weaponry, and advanced  medical and rescue capabilities, they offer a dual-function  approach to maritime security. Mitsotakis emphasized this  as central to Greece’s comprehensive migration strategy,  which balances the protection of national sovereignty with  respect for human dignity. 

Addressing criticism aimed at the Coast Guard, Mitsotakis  took a firm stance in support of those serving on the front  lines. “Let us shut our ears to the irresponsible voices  who, from the comfort of their living rooms, slander those  who brave the sea in service to their country,” he said.  “Your actions, your presence, speak louder than any  accusation. You protect not just Greece’s coasts, but also  the external borders of Europe.” 

The Prime Minister highlighted measurable progress in  managing migration flows. Between January and August  2025, total illegal arrivals dropped by 7.2% compared to  the same period in 2024, with some Eastern Aegean  islands experiencing reductions of over 42%. While initial  surges were observed from Libya, a temporary  suspension of asylum procedures helped reverse the  trend. Mitsotakis noted that in August, Crete saw as many  arrivals in a month as it did in a single day during July—a  dramatic shift credited to enhanced surveillance and  deterrence capabilities. 

The procurement of these new vessels follows  specifications tailored by Greek experts to address the  unique geographical and operational challenges of the  Aegean. Mitsotakis expressed hope that future defense  programs will include increased participation from Greek  shipyards, which have been revitalized under recent  government initiatives “These vessels are not only built for the Greek seas—they are built by Greek minds and  hands. We encourage our domestic shipbuilding industry  to participate fully in upcoming competitive tenders,” he  said. 

In closing, the Prime Minister extended a heartfelt  message to the crews who will man the new boats. “You  deserve the best tools for your tireless service. The state  stands firmly by your side—not just with words, but with  action and investment. May these vessels serve safely  and may their crews always return home unharmed.”