Greece unveiled the country’s new, high-tec military uniform and gear for Greek soldiers, encompassing new technologies and responding to modern challenges of the 21st century, according to the Greek Ministry of Defense.
The uniform and its supporting gear, dubbed the “Fighter’s Uniform,” was presented to the public by Defense Minister Nikos Dendias at an event held at the Hellenic Army Academy, on Tuesday, February 4,
“We are creating a new reality,” Dendias said during the event. “A Greek fighter of the 21st century.” He added that “A modern military cannot exist without modern fighters. Modern operations require modern gear for every fighter, which can provide him with protection, versatility and firepower.”
The minister said that the change of the individual soldier’s gear stems from the new standards of the overall reform of Greece’s armed forces, known as “Agenda 2030.”
He further noted that the specific program costs 204 million euros ($211 million) and is part of Greece’s long-term defense upgrade planning.
What the new uniform and its gear look like
The new uniform and gear are revamped on five levels: survival, firepower, communications, awareness and versatility.
The survival of Greek soldiers in the field will be enhanced, as it will include a new helmet and body armor, a first-aid kit and proper shoes and clothing, which on it will have biometric sensors. In terms of firepower, along with the new uniform, the soldiers will have more powerful weapons, which will provide them with speed and precision. In terms of versatility, the new gear is lighter and made of modern material.
The communication gear attached to the uniform will ensure that communications are done in real time, while it will enable soldiers to analyze the tactical situation and make fast decisions in the field. The gear includes the use of blue force tracking.
Greece continues to revamp its armed forces and Air Force
The last of an order for 24 Rafale aircraft for the Hellenic Air Force landed at the Tanagra military base on Thursday, delivered to Greece by France.
Greece had initially ordered 18 Rafale aircraft, with another 6 such fighter jets added (version 4.5).
The fighter airplanes have been incorporated in 332 Squadron, part of the 114 Combat Wing, replacing the M-2000 aircraft.
By 2030, the Air Force plans to have three types of fighters. These will include F-35s, F-16 Vipers, and Rafales, with a total of 200 aircraft.
In July 2024 Greece finalized its intention to procure 20 Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II aircraft by signing a Letter of Offer and Acceptance (LOA) through a U.S. government Foreign Military Sale. The LOA also includes an option for 20 additional aircraft.
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said in a video statement that, as part of the deal, the Greek state will also receive significant military aid at no extra cost. This would include frigates, C-130 transport aircraft, armored tanks, and vehicles.
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