Hellenic Defense Innovation Center Unveils Ambitious R&D Projects for 2025, focusing on unmanned systems, AI, smart surveillance, and next-gen defense technologies.
The Hellenic Defense Innovation Center – HCDI (ELKAK) has officially released its comprehensive research and development program for 2025, showcasing forward-looking defense projects. While the list represents HCDI’s current strategic vision, the planning horizon remains flexible and may be adjusted according to emerging operational needs, priorities, or stakeholder input.
2025 R&D Program Overview
The announced projects reflect Greece’s ambition to foster indigenous defense innovation across a wide spectrum of technologies, including artificial intelligence, unmanned systems, secure communications, and advanced surveillance. The key projects include:
- Development of a Tactical Battle Management System.
- Autonomous Surface Vehicle Systems (Unmanned Surface Vessels).
- Active System for Limiting Transient Overvoltage Surges.
- Unmanned Cargo Aircraft (UAV) for dual-use operations.
- Aerial Surveillance System using Acoustic Sensors.
- Deployable and ad hoc Maritime/Aerial Surveillance System.
- Optical Transceiver for High-Speed Secure Satellite Communications.
- Autonomous Maritime and Underwater Surveillance System.
- Loitering Munition launchable by multicopter and/or helicopter.
- Wearable Equipment and Software for Monitoring Combatants’ Vital Signs.
- Ammunition Counter for Infantry Rifles.
- Integrated System for Detection and Jamming of Radar and Communication Emitters.
- GNSS Receiver Jamming System.
- AI-Driven Secure Data Routing over Heterogeneous Networks.
- IP-based Tactical Wireless Network Integration Solutions.
- Portable UAV Control Station for real-time multi-drone operations. Utilization of Multiple UAVs in Real Time
- Upgraded Special Operations Command & Control Tactical System.
- Integrated Counter-UAS System.
- Target Detection System using Fiber Optic Technology (surface/subsurface).
- Directed Energy Weapon System with HELs and HPMs to defend against drone swarms.
- Initial Design of National Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV).
Ongoing Competitions and Pre-Consultations
On March 27, ELKAK launched two open competitions:
- Transient Overvoltage Limiting System: Designed to protect naval power networks and equipment across all vessel types. It offers real-time monitoring, automatic activation of appropriate protection levels, and reduced maintenance costs.
- Cargo UAV: A versatile aircraft for military, commercial, or humanitarian logistics, ensuring rapid delivery in hard-to-reach areas and seamless integration with other autonomous platforms.
On March 31, ELKAK also issued two Requests for Information (RFI):
- Aerial Surveillance System with Acoustic Sensors for early UAV detection and tracking.
- Ad hoc Deployable Maritime/Aerial Surveillance System for wide-area coverage.
Strategic Vision
Through these initiatives, HCDI (ELKAK) aims to enhance its understanding of the domestic tech ecosystem, assess market maturity, and identify feasible collaborations for optimized R&D implementation. This strategic approach also promotes sustainable development of operational defense solutions, leveraging both existing and emerging technologies.
As Greece continues to prioritize technological sovereignty and defense readiness, the 2025 R&D roadmap positions HCDI at the forefront of European innovation in defense systems.
Last month, the HCDI published two Calls for Proposals for the development of a Command and Control Information Systems (C2IS) and Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs)