# Greek defence modernization and civil protection

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/greek-defence-modernization-and-civil-protection
> Updated: 2026-08-26T14:50:25.000Z. Sources: 10. Developments: 4.

On 22 July 2026, Defence Minister Nikos Dendias visited the 355th Firefighting Aircraft Squadron at Eleusis Air Base, praising the Air Force’s dual role in military missions and civil-protection tasks such as aerial firefighting and rescue. He linked the need to replace the ageing firefighting fleet to the broader “Agenda 2030” defence reform and paid tribute to crews lost in the line of duty. A week later, on 29 July, Dendias embarked on a two-day tour of six Eastern Aegean and Dodecanese islands, followed by Crete, accompanied by senior army, navy and air-force chiefs. The delegation inspected bases, reviewed drone deployments and assessed progress on the “Armed Forces 2030” plan to ensure operational readiness ahead of the autumn elections and the upcoming tourist season. On 15 August, representing the Prime Minister, Dendias attended celebrations for the Dormition of the Virgin Mary and Armed Forces Day at the Panagia Ekatontapiliani shrine on Paros. During his address, he emphasized the military’s role in defending national sovereignty and upholding international law, specifically the Law of the Sea. He framed the armed forces as a guarantor of independence against “increasing international uncertainties and authoritarian approaches,” while reiterating the importance of the ‘Agenda 2030’ strategic plan to transform Greek weaponry into more advanced forces. On 26 August, Deputy Minister of National Defence Thanasis Davakis expanded defense diplomacy by meeting with Japanese Deputy Minister of Defense Masahisa Miyazaki in Athens. The meeting focused on bilateral cooperation in defense, security, and technology, with both officials emphasizing a shared commitment to international law and regional stability. Domestically, Davakis inspected military readiness on the islands of Kos and Psimiro, visiting the 80th Higher National Guard Battalion Command and an observation post.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-26: Thanasis Davakis conducts defense diplomacy and island inspections

Greek Deputy Defense Minister Thanasis Davakis met with his Japanese counterpart to discuss defense and technology cooperation, while also inspecting military readiness on the islands of Kos and Psimiro.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/thanasis-davakis-conducts-defense-diplomacy-and-island-inspections

### 2026-08-15: Nikos Dendias defends Greek sovereignty during Paros celebrations

Defense Minister Nikos Dendias represented the Greek government on Paros, emphasizing military modernization and the defense of national sovereignty during Armed Forces Day celebrations.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nikos-dendias-defends-greek-sovereignty-during-paros-celebrations

### 2026-07-29: Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias visits Aegean islands and Crete

Defence Minister Nikos Dendias tours six Aegean islands and Crete with senior military chiefs, reviewing drone use and the Armed Forces 2030 plan ahead of elections.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/greek-defence-minister-nikos-dendias-visits-aegean-islands-and-crete

### 2026-07-22: Defence Minister Dendias praises Air Force civil‑protection at Eleusis

Defence Minister Nikos Dendias visited Eleusis air base, lauding the Air Force’s firefighting and rescue role, calling for fleet modernization and honoring fallen crew members.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/defence-minister-dendias-praises-air-force-civilprotection-at-eleusis

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Cite as: Greek defence modernization and civil protection. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/greek-defence-modernization-and-civil-protection