Greece has taken significant steps to enhance its defense capabilities by converting a military facility into a large-scale drone production center, drawing inspiration from insights gained during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This transformation is taking place at the 306 Telecommunications Base Factory (EBT), located in Acharnes, near Athens, which has the capacity to produce over 1,000 drones annually. The facility will primarily focus on first-person-view drone models.
In addition to manufacturing drones, the 306 EBT is equipped to develop drone software, operating not just as a production site but as an integrated hub for research and development. Notably, the facility features portable drone production stations that can be relocated to frontline positions, providing on-site drone support as needed.
Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “We will continue this transition, because our country is a country facing a threat. And the hope for us to be able to deter threats throughout time is to develop our own Greek capabilities.” This underscores Greece’s commitment to bolstering its defense framework amidst regional tensions.
To further augment its military capabilities, Greece is poised to invest 26 billion euros (approximately $28 billion) in new weapons systems by 2036, with considerable emphasis on modernizing its drone technology. As part of these efforts, the nation announced plans to establish a drone and counter-drone training facility in Tripoli, located in the southern part of the country. This new facility aims to enhance the existing conscript training center, transforming it into a center for advanced drone operations while incorporating new technological advancements within the Greek Armed Forces.
In a related development, the US State Department recently approved a potential sale valued at $130 million, which includes Aerosonde drones and armored vehicles for Athens. These drones will feature advanced systems designed to counter spoofing and improve GPS accuracy, further strengthening Greece’s aerial capabilities. Additionally, earlier this year, Greece sanctioned the purchase of approximately 590 Switchblade 300 and 600 loitering munitions from AeroVironment, marking a significant advancement in its tactical drone operations.
These strategic initiatives reflect Greece’s proactive approach towards modernizing its defense infrastructure and enhancing national security amid a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.
