Commission: A new generation of European defence projects Greece in 4 of the 5 programmes

The European Union has taken significant steps toward enhancing its military readiness and mobility, driven by concerns over the slow deployment of forces during recent exercises and the broader geopolitical landscape shaped by Russia's ongoing conflict in Ukraine. In early July, Greece deployed a tank platoon consisting of Leopard 1A5 tanks, TOMA Marder infantry fighting vehicles, and support units to Champagne, located in the newly consolidated Grand Est region of northern France. This deployment was part of the Orion-26 military exercise, designed to simulate a potential invasion by Russian or other hostile forces, with allied nations providing support to France. While the exercise was deemed successful, it highlighted persistent challenges in moving military assets quickly between member states.

The Greek armored force had to travel from Thrace, northeastern Greece, where the units were based, to the northern port city of Kavala. From there, they boarded a Landing Ship, Tank (LST) for transit. After a one-day stopover to plan the next stage of the operation, the ship arrived at the French port of Toulon, after which the force traveled via special rail lines to reach the "front" in Champagne. This entire process took nearly a full week—time that could prove decisive in an actual conflict scenario. Such delays underscore the urgent need for improved coordination and faster troop movements across Europe.

In response to these logistical hurdles, the European Commission has proposed a comprehensive initiative known as the "military Schengen" plan. This ambitious strategy aims to streamline bureaucratic processes and facilitate the rapid movement of troops and equipment across borders. The plan, estimated to cost around €100 billion, involves harmonizing permit procedures, modernizing infrastructure, and establishing logistics hubs to ensure swift troop mobilization. Additionally, any request for the passage of military personnel or even civilian vehicles used for dual purposes would need to be processed within three calendar days by the relevant countries.

Complementing this effort, the European Council recently approved the creation of the European Military Mobility Enhanced Response System (EMERS). This new framework would allow for immediate activation during emergencies, bypassing the usual bureaucratic channels and enabling a more agile response. EMERS will feature a digital platform for real-time data exchange among participating nations and will also incorporate NATO’s non-European members, further integrating the alliance into the EU’s defense architecture.

However, while the EU seeks to enhance its military capabilities, it faces internal challenges related to the implementation of the new Entry Exit System (EES), part of the Schengen zone reforms. Recent reports indicate that technical issues persist with the EES, prompting calls for a temporary suspension of the system. President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen acknowledged the remaining work needed to resolve these problems but emphasized that the system does not alter the legal framework governing entry and exit from the EU—it merely enhances transparency in applying existing rules.

Airports and airlines across Europe have raised concerns about potential disruptions caused by delays at border checkpoints under the new system, particularly during the summer peak season when millions of travelers are expected to pass through European airports. A coalition led by France, including Greece, has reportedly advocated for a temporary halt on the implementation of EES for several months to address these concerns.

Simultaneously, the European Commission has unveiled plans for a new generation of European defense projects aimed at strengthening the continent’s strategic autonomy and reducing reliance on external suppliers. These initiatives, collectively referred to as European Defence Projects of Common Interest (EDPCIs), represent a shift from previous efforts focused primarily on research and procurement to long-term industrial partnerships between member states and companies. With an estimated investment of over €180 billion over the coming years, these projects aim to develop critical military systems that no single nation can produce alone.

Greece plays a prominent role in several of these initiatives. For instance, it participates in the DECODER program, which focuses on the development of European drones and systems for countering unmanned aerial vehicles. The project involves 26 countries and is projected to receive investments ranging from €3.5 to €5 billion by 2033. Another major initiative, the Integrated Maritime and Seabed Defence (IMSD), directly addresses maritime security and includes the development of shared European capabilities for monitoring and protecting underwater infrastructure such as cables, pipelines, and energy installations. This project is estimated to cost between €43 and €72 billion by 2045.

Additionally, Greece contributes to the SPACE program, aimed at increasing the EU’s independence in military space applications. This initiative encompasses satellite communications, early warning systems, navigation services, and the development of new European space infrastructure, with total investments potentially reaching €24 billion by 2034. Greece is also involved in the EU-FIAMD project, which seeks to establish a unified European air and missile defense system integrated with NATO structures. This endeavor is expected to require investments between €55 and €80 billion by 2040.

Despite its active participation in most of these programs, Greece is notably absent from the Eastern Flank Watch initiative, which focuses on bolstering defense along the eastern periphery of the EU. Nevertheless, the country remains deeply engaged in multiple high-profile defense collaborations that align with its strategic interests and regional security priorities. As the EU continues to refine its military strategies and address internal challenges, the contributions of member states like Greece will remain crucial in shaping the future of European defense cooperation.