Greece to close 187 military barracks and sign defense deal with Israel

Greece is undertaking a military restructuring plan for the 2026–2035 period aimed at reducing operational costs and addressing personnel shortages. Defense Minister Nikos Dendias informed the Parliamentary Standing Committee on National Defense and Foreign Policy that the plan involves closing 187 of the country’s 831 barracks. This move is expected to save approximately 100 million euros annually.

The restructuring focuses on facilities with low occupancy rates, often below 30%, and limited operational importance. By consolidating personnel into critical units, the government aims to increase occupancy rates in those locations to nearly 70%. The resulting savings are intended to fund personnel housing, salary adjustments, and ongoing armament programs.

In a related strategic move, Athens has signed a defense agreement with Israel valued at approximately 3 billion euros under the ‘Achilles Shield’ project. This multi-layered air defense agreement includes the procurement of David’s Sling, SPYDER, and Barak MX systems, along with air surveillance radars.