On Monday 23 March 2026, the Minister of National Defence Nikos Dendias participated in the meeting of the Government Council for National Security, which was held under the Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, in Maximos Mansion.

After the meeting, Mr. Dendias stated:

“Today, the Government Council for National Security made a series of significant decisions about the propositions made by the Ministry of National Defence.

Initially, regarding the anti-drone, anti-aircraft, anti-ballistic “dome” of our country, which is a rather significant part of the “Achilles’ Shield” along with the relevant “Command & Control” principles.

In addition, it decided on the MEKO Frigate modernisation programme. After many years of waiting, the programme will finally be implemented. We will have four ships, which will be able to respond to contemporary requirements.

It also decided on a new infrastructure for the F-35 aircraft. I would like to remind you that the first F-35 will be delivered to us in 2028, in the USA.

Last but not least, a decision was made on the issue of upgrading the F-16 Block 50 to F-16 Viper. I think that with the F-16 Viper aircraft, the Hellenic Air Force will by far exceed 100 F-16 Viper, which along with the Rafale and F-35 aircraft will establish, I think, one of the strongest Air Forces in Europe.

We also did not neglect the issue of transport aircraft. The Government Council for National Security approved the maintenance of our C-27 aircraft with a “Follow-On Support” programme. I would like to remind you that when the Government took office, there was only one functional transport aircraft. At the moment, this number has increased to 12. We have “resurrected” our fleet.

This, of course, does not mean that the country does not need to transcend to an age where it will possess two or three newer transport aircraft. However, that is something to be discussed in the future, after the Parliament has been briefed”.