Greece has inaugurated a new Space Operations Command as part of a defence modernisation programme aimed at strengthening the country’s independent satellite intelligence and communications capabilities.
Defence Minister Nikos Dendias announced the establishment of the Space Operations Command (SOC), which will operate under the Hellenic Air Force.
The new command will focus on satellite communications, space-based data collection and the coordination of military space capabilities.
Read more: Dendias Outlines New Era for Hellenic Air Force
The move comes as the Ministry of National Defence advances plans to acquire a fleet of 12 satellites across three categories, giving Greece greater access to intelligence and surveillance data.
According to the announced programme, Greece plans to acquire:
- Six optical satellites for imaging and surveillance.
- Three SIGINT satellites for signals intelligence.
- Three synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites for radar imaging and observation.
The combination of optical and radar satellites is intended to provide Greece with a broader capacity to monitor activity and gather information, including in conditions where conventional optical imaging may be limited.
The SIGINT component will add a signals intelligence capability, supporting the collection and analysis of electronic signals.
Greece seeks greater independence in military intelligence
The establishment of the Space Operations Command and the planned satellite acquisitions form part of Greece’s wider effort to strengthen its defence capabilities and reduce reliance on intelligence data supplied by foreign partners.
Access to its own satellite infrastructure would give Athens greater control over the collection, availability and use of information supporting military planning and operations.
The programme also reflects the growing importance of space-based systems in modern defence, where satellite communications, surveillance and intelligence gathering play an increasingly significant role.
Greece’s planned constellation of 12 satellites would represent a major expansion of its national military space capabilities.
