Address by Minister of National Defence Nikos Dendias to Athens Defence Summit

Address by Minister of National Defence Nikos Dendias to Athens Defence Summit

May 20, 2026

Today, Wednesday 20 May 2026, the Minister of National Defence, Nikos Dendias, in his video address for the opening of the Athens Defence Summit (ADS), due to his absence in Germany, stated the following:

It is my great pleasure to open the proceedings of the Athens Defence Summit. Unfortunately, commitments abroad prevented me from being here with you today.

We all know that the gradual shift from a system that ensured a balance of power, to an international order marked by rising competition and continuous concertation has increased uncertainty, and brought back the prospect of high intensity conflict. This reality is evident. Both in the scope of recent, and ongoing conflicts in areas such as Ukraine, the South Caucasus, Syria, Yemen, the Sahel, and the Middle East, and from the importance of keeping critical strategic waterways open, such as the Strait of Hormuz, and the Suez Canal. Those waterways directly affect the global economy, and the international supply chain.

Under these extreme geopolitical conditions, the global increase in defence spending is not a temporary phenomenon. At the same time, the rapid deployment of new technologies, such as artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, unmanned platforms, and advanced data analytics capabilities, is radically transforming the modern battlefield. However, we must not overlook that this development also poses a significant challenge to international peace and security, as it can increase instability, accelerate arms races, and create serious accountability issues.

In this constantly changing and demanding environment, the need to implement "Agenda 2030", which aims to transform and modernise the Hellenic Armed Forces comprehensively, becomes evident. "Agenda 2030" is not limited to just procuring new and modern weapons systems. It focuses on creating a modern, holistic deterrence system, by integrating innovative technologies, strengthening cyber-defence, harnessing artificial intelligence, and enhancing operational interoperability. It also emphasises the development of the domestic defence industry and ensures supply security for the Armed Forces. And, of course it puts high value on measures that will improve working conditions, training, and daily life of our personnel.

With these thoughts, I would like to welcome the participants, congratulate the organisers, and wish you every success to the proceedings of the Athens Defence Summit.

Thank you".