Nikos Dendias Inaugurates the International Defense Exhibition (DEFEA 2025)
The Minister of National Defense, Nikos Dendias, inaugurated the DEFEA 2025 International Exhibition for Defense, Security, and Technology, which is taking place at the Metropolitan Expo center near Athens International Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos.”
Focusing on innovation, strengthening the domestic defense industry, and transparency in defense spending, the exhibition is held under the auspices of the Ministry of National Defense and brings together leading stakeholders and companies from the global defense sector. This year’s event records a record number of participants.
Key Points from Dendias’ Speech at DEFEA 2025
Strengthening the Domestic Defense Industry
Mr. Dendias highlighted two key strategic objectives of the Ministry:
a. Expanding the participation of the domestic defense industry in armament programs.
b. Developing a robust innovation ecosystem.
The Hellenic Center of Defense and Innovation (HCDI, ELKAK) is already operational with 10 research programs, and 11 more are expected to be launched by the end of the year.
Long-Term Defense Armaments Plan
The Minister referred to the Long-Term Defense Armaments Plan (LTDAP), which spans 20 years and offers predictability and strategic visibility to the defense industry.
A key goal is for 25% of procurement programs to come from Greek companies.
Emphasis on Transparency
Mr. Dendias addressed the need to combat corruption, describing it as “not only a moral issue but also a developmental and economic one.”
“Between 1974 and 2004, Greece spent—adjusted to today’s prices—over €270 billion on defense procurement. Had the choices over the years been more optimal, to put it delicately, these funds could have made Greece a major exporting power,” he noted.
To address this, he announced new transparency measures accompanying the LTDAP and called on political parties and society to contribute with proposals.
Economic Growth Through Defense
For the first time, defense spending is being viewed as a lever for economic growth, according to the Minister. He emphasized the importance of creating:
- Highly skilled jobs
- Export-oriented activity
- A sustainable balance of external payments