Based on Flight.gr, in today’s meeting of the Hellenic National Defence General Staff (HNDGS), the activation of a program to purchase 100 SPIKE SR anti-tank missiles through the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) was approved. This procurement is of paramount importance for the Hellenic Army. Notably, the procurement through NSPA implies that Greece will benefit from the discounts of bulk orders often available for this missile.
Intriguingly, the acquisition of 14 AW139 Search and Rescue (SAR) helicopters for the Hellenic Air Force was also approved. The first program is a recommendation of the Hellenic Army, while the selection of the AW139 is a suggestion of the Air Force. This implies a shift in the Air Force’s procurement strategy, moving away from joint service acquisitions and charting its own course.
Furthermore, the activation of a program to purchase batteries for SST-4 and SUT torpedoes was decided. This program is extremely important for the Hellenic Navy, as these torpedoes are equipped on submarines and Fast Patrol Boats.
Additionally, the Armed Forces are initiating a study for the acquisition of loitering munitions and are researching used armored fighting vehicles (AFVs). The Hellenic Army wants to be very cautious regarding the purchase of both the loitering munitions and the AFVs. Particularly with the AFVs, the HNDGS is opening up one of the key procurements for the Army.
Beyond these armament programs, discussions also included:
- The contribution of the Armed Forces to NATO Missions–Operations.
- Organizational matters of the General Staff and International Organizations.
- The awarding of Moral Rewards.
- The establishment of a distinctive Greek Flag on the uniforms of the Armed Forces.
