Greece’s Defence Minister Nikos Dendias outlined the country’s new military strategy

Greece’s Defence Minister Nikos Dendias outlined the country’s new military strategy, dubbed the “Achilles’ Shield,” during a speech at the Crete Development Conference on Thursday.

He revealed that Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis will present this cutting-edge armament programme to Parliament next week, spotlighting Crete’s pivotal role in modern geopolitics and energy dynamics.

Dendias emphasised Crete’s historical significance as a beacon of Hellenism, contributing richly to Greece’s political and cultural life. Its strategic location, he noted, has long drawn the attention of global powers. Against the backdrop of recent “extraordinary events” in Syria—namely the Sunni dominance following the Assad regime’s fall—Dendias questioned whether the new Al-Sara regime would share power with other groups amid clashes with Alawites and a deal with the Kurds. He reaffirmed Greece’s stance, urging protection for Syria’s Christian communities.

Crete’s importance extends to NATO and the U.S., with the Souda Bay port capable of hosting next-generation aircraft carriers, alongside firing ranges, military and civilian airports, and key installations. “It’s critical for overseeing the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean,” Dendias said.

The “Achilles’ Shield” defence system, inspired by the mythical hero’s five-layered shield, will feature anti-drone, anti-missile, anti-aircraft, anti-ship, and anti-submarine layers. “Until now, we guarded the Aegean with our fleet and airspace with planes,” Dendias explained. “That’s changing.” He also highlighted a shift in military outfitting, citing the new Greek soldier’s uniform as an example.

Innovation is key to the plan, with Dendias praising the University of Crete’s potential to harness Greece’s human capital. Paired with the newly established Greek Defence Innovation Centre (ELKAK), this could address the armed forces’ needs effectively. He showcased the “Centaur” anti-drone system—initially developed to counter Bayraktar drones in electronic warfare—which successfully downed two Houthi drones in the Red Sea. Now ordered for all Greek frigates, it’s 50% cheaper than similar international options, Dendias noted proudly.

Next week’s parliamentary unveiling will mark a bold step into 21st-century defence for Greece, with Crete at its strategic heart.

Source: pagenews.gr