Reuters: Greece Prepares to Purchase C-390 Aircraft and Mini-Submarines

Greece is set to significantly upgrade its military capabilities with the approval of a major arms procurement deal, including advanced transport aircraft and unmanned systems.

The Hellenic Parliament's relevant committee on Thursday greenlit the acquisition of three Embraer C-390 military transport aircraft from Brazil. This significant purchase is part of a broader defense modernization effort aimed at enhancing Greece's strategic position.

In addition to the C-390s, the procurement package includes various types of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) from the United States and Israel. The deal also encompasses ten British-manufactured VICTA mini-submarines intended for special operations. According to Reuters, the total estimated cost for these systems ranges from 1 billion to 1.2 billion euros ($1.15–1.38 billion).

Approximately half of the allocated funds will be dedicated to the purchase and support of the C-390 aircraft. The remaining budget will cover the acquisition of an Israeli Heron UAV system, ten V-BATs from the U.S., and the upgrade of four German-made MEKO-200 frigates. This investment is part of Greece's plan to spend around 28 billion euros by 2036 to modernize its armed forces.

The modernization drive is particularly significant as it occurs in the post-memorandum era following the 2009–2018 economic crisis. It is also viewed as a strategic move to maintain a power balance with Turkey in the region. The acquisitions still require approval from the Supreme Council for National Security and Defense (KYSEA), but sources indicate this is expected to be a formality.