03.09.2025 06:37
In an article titled "Turkey's Arms Buildup is a Headache for Greece" published by the Greek newspaper Kathimerini, it was highlighted that Turkey's strengthening defense industry has also put Greece in a difficult position diplomatically. The article stated, "Turkey can utilize its capabilities in the defense industry to strengthen its relations with European powers."
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The Greek newspaper Kathimerini published a report highlighting that Turkey's rapidly growing defense industry poses increasing military and diplomatic challenges for Greece.
"TURKEY'S DEFENSE INDUSTRY HAS BECOME RESILIENT AGAINST ARMS EMBARGOES"
The report indicates that Athens' efforts to revitalize its neglected defense sector have been ineffective, stating, "Turkey's robust and self-sufficient defense industry has freed Ankara from dependence on arms imports and made it resilient against a potential arms embargo that NATO allies could impose in the event of a conflict. On the other hand, Greece remains far from self-sufficient and vulnerable even in terms of ammunition," it said.
"SPAIN AND ITALY CONTINUE COMPREHENSIVE DEFENSE PARTNERSHIPS WITH ANKARA"
The report points out that a major concern for Athens is Turkey's use of its defense industry capabilities to strengthen its relationships with European powers, stating, "Spain and Italy are already maintaining comprehensive defense partnerships with Ankara, and other European countries are expected to follow suit. Turkish defense products, including drones developed by Baykar, managed by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's son-in-law Selçuk Bayraktar, offer attractive alternatives for European partners amid global geopolitical turbulence. Greek diplomats have repeatedly faced these challenges in Brussels and other major European capitals," it noted.
"GREECE'S DEFENSE INDUSTRY HAS SERIOUSLY REGRESSED"
On the other hand, the report highlights that Greece's defense industry has seriously regressed during years of austerity, with some exceptions, stating, "Although recent investments in advanced fighter jets, frigates, and Israeli weapon systems have increased deterrence, they have not been very effective in revitalizing domestic production."
"GREECE HAS FALLEN BEHIND TURKEY"
Despite some promising steps, the report states that Greece has fallen behind Turkey, saying, "The Turkish defense industry is now both a tool of diplomacy and a competitive partner for European defense companies. For Athens, rebuilding domestic capabilities remains an urgent priority in an environment of ongoing regional tensions."
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