20.01.2025 11:31
Greece, which has entered an arms race against Turkey and has armed the Aegean islands in violation of international agreements, is now planning to equip its large warships with long-range missiles. Additionally, it will deploy 300-kilometer range missiles purchased from Israel on the islands located right next to Turkey.
The Hellenic Navy clearly outlines its goals for the year 2037: "Be ready to attack when necessary." In this context, the installation of long-range missile systems on large warships is planned. This new armament policy of Greece indicates a shift away from the understanding of defense and deterrence towards a more aggressive approach.
ALLEGATIONS OF THREAT TOWARDS TURKEY
For many years, Greece has been arming the islands opposite the Turkish coasts in the Aegean in violation of international agreements. Justifying these moves with the claim that it "sees a threat from Turkey," Athens now aims to equip its large warships with more powerful missile systems. In particular, the range of these systems, which will be developed for Belharra-class frigates and new submarines, will vary between 1000 and 1400 kilometers.
DEVELOPING STRATEGY AGAINST THE BLUE HOMELAND
The Greek press emphasizes that this move is a direct measure against Turkey's "Blue Homeland" doctrine. According to the newspaper Kathimerini, the Blue Homeland strategy aims to limit Greek forces to the west of the Aegean. In contrast, Greece's developed plan aims to expand the operational area into the Eastern Mediterranean, weakening Turkey's defense capabilities along its coasts. It is noted that points such as Antalya and Hatay should also be included in this strategy.
BUYING NEW MISSILE SYSTEMS FROM ISRAEL
Greece's armament activities are not limited to naval forces. According to the newspaper Ta Nea, 32-kilometer range Spike NLOS and 300-kilometer range PULS missile systems ordered from Israel will be deployed to the Aegean islands. These steps are evaluated within the context of Greece's strategy to further strengthen its military presence in the region and encircle Turkey.
COMPARING THEIR FORCES WITH TURKEY
The Greek newspaper Kathimerini stated that the Turkish Navy has a total of 35 ships, including frigates, anti-aircraft systems, helicopters, aircraft carriers, corvettes, and submarines. Kathimerini emphasized that 45 new ships will be added to the Turkish Navy's fleet between 2030 and 2035.
The newspaper noted that the Hellenic Navy has a total of 22 ships, including frigates, anti-aircraft systems, helicopters, aircraft carriers, corvettes, and submarines. The newspaper estimated that between 21 and 30 ships will be added to the Hellenic Navy between 2030 and 2035.
Greece's aggressive policies have the potential to increase tensions in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean. How Turkey will strategize in response to these developments remains a matter of curiosity.