Greek Media Criticizes Its Government for Falling Behind Turkey in Defense Industry

Greek Media Criticizes Its Government for Falling Behind Turkey in Defense Industry
Greek media has criticized its government for failing to take necessary steps to develop the country's defense industry to a level that could compete with Turkey's growing capabilities in this sector. The media expressed growing concern over what it described as the widening "technological gap" between the two countries, particularly in the defense sector.

The Greek outlet "Militer" highlighted Turkey's progress in defense, focusing on the development of the fifth-generation fighter jet "KAAN." The report mentioned that when Turkey first announced its plans to design and produce the "KAAN" fighter jet, there was significant skepticism, especially in Greece, which had long predicted Turkey's "fall." However, the article added, "Not only is Turkey developing the 'KAAN' fighter jet, but it is also negotiating the sale of 100 units to Saudi Arabia—something unimaginable just a few years ago, especially among skeptics in Greece."

Another Greek outlet, "Ekfrasi," questioned Greece’s ability to compete with Turkey’s defense industry, stating, "While Turkey produces fifth-generation fighter jets like the 'KAAN,' we [Greece] can’t even produce a single screw."

Greek media blamed their government for failing to take the necessary steps to develop the country's defense industry to a level where it could compete with Turkey’s growing capabilities. They described the Greek defense sector as struggling, with some media outlets holding Defense Minister Nikos Dendias responsible.

Greek defense analysts acknowledged that Turkey’s defense industry has grown rapidly, producing a range of products that far surpass Greece's capabilities. Analysts predicted that if Turkey successfully sells 100 "KAAN" fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, it would solidify Ankara’s position as one of the leading arms exporters in the region.

In addition to the proposed fighter jet sales, Saudi Arabia has purchased Turkish "Akinci" drones and "Ejder Yalcin" armored vehicles. Reports indicated that Saudi Arabia spent $3 billion on purchasing Akinci MALE (Medium Altitude Long Endurance) drones from Baykar Technology, making it Turkey’s largest defense deal in history. In recent years, defense relations between Turkey and Saudi Arabia have become closer.

Reports also suggested that Saudi Arabia is considering purchasing 100 "KAAN" fifth-generation fighter jets, still in development in Turkey, following a three-day meeting between Turkish defense industry head Professor Haluk Görgün, Saudi Deputy Defense Minister Khalid Al-Bayari, and Saudi Royal Air Force Commander Turki Bandar Al Saud.

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