Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias unveils major Armed Forces reform plan

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Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias has announced a sweeping roadmap to modernise the country’s Armed Forces, introducing reforms to military service, personnel careers, and training.

Dendias said the changes aim “to create a new army,” with stricter rules for buying out of service and a focus on advanced technology training, including drones and anti-drone systems.

“The reforms may carry a political cost, but they are necessary and will move forward,” he stressed.

Key measures include optional enlistment for women, higher allowances for conscripts at the border, and a new training model comprising 10 weeks of basic training, 4 weeks of specialised training, and 12 weeks in readiness units.

A new salary system will replace the current 85 tiers with 20, tying pay to responsibilities rather than rank.

Non-commissioned officers (NCOs) will see significant raises and new promotion pathways, while Colonels and Frigate Commanders will receive increases of 156% and 52% respectively. Housing, daycare, and family benefits will also be expanded.

Education reforms include the creation of a Military Education Directorate, upgraded academies with certified programs, and NCO schools elevated to higher education institutions.

Reserve forces will be bolstered with a 150,000-strong active reserve, two new commando units in Rentina and Aspropyrgos, and annual call-ups of 50,000 reservists over three years.

Dendias also confirmed that weapons programs are accelerating, with Greece’s first F-35 jets expected by 2028 to boost operational readiness.

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