Greece has officially joined the European Union’s SAFE (Security Action for Europe) defense funding program, marking a new step in the country’s efforts to strengthen its military capabilities and support wider European security, according to Hurriyet Daily News.
The announcement came on June 13 from European Commissioner for Defense and Space Andrius Kubilius, who described Greece’s entry into the program as an important move for both the initiative and Europe’s broader defense strategy. Writing on X, Kubilius highlighted the agreement as part of a growing effort to build a more coordinated and resilient security framework across the EU.
Under the deal, Greece will receive financial support to upgrade its defense infrastructure, particularly in the Mediterranean region. The funding will focus on three key areas: advanced surveillance systems, secure and encrypted communication networks, and technologies designed to detect and counter unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones.
The agreement reflects Greece’s ongoing push to modernize its armed forces at a time of rising regional tensions. Disputes with Türkiye in the Aegean Sea and the Eastern Mediterranean have kept security concerns high, while shifting global dynamics have also influenced European defense planning.
Across the EU, there is growing concern about reliance on the United States for security, especially amid uncertainty surrounding Washington’s long-term commitment to NATO. In response, European countries have begun to invest more heavily in their own defense systems and coordination.
Greece already stands out within NATO for its high defense spending relative to its economy, and the SAFE program is expected to further strengthen its position.
The SAFE initiative itself was launched as part of the EU’s response to the security challenges heightened by Russia’s war in Ukraine. It aims to improve cooperation among member states, streamline military investments, and reduce fragmentation in defense procurement across Europe.
