Politics Too few conscripts - Greece reorganizes armed forces
Greece is pressing ahead with a comprehensive reform of its armed forces. The most important component is the establishment of a corps of 150,000 reservists.
21.11.2025, 14:53
SDA
Men between the ages of 45 and 60 are to take part on a voluntary basis. For the first time, women between the ages of 18 and 26 will also be given the opportunity to serve in the armed forces on a voluntary, twelve-month basis from 2026. The Greek Ministry of Defense presented the corresponding amendment to the law today.
Low birth rate as the trigger
Reasons for the measures include the low birth rate - one of the lowest in the EU at 1.26 - and the exodus of young people abroad during the severe financial crisis of the last decade. According to the statistics office, the population shrank by around 380,000 people between 2011 and 2021 - and the number of conscripts fell accordingly. Military service is compulsory in Greece. Its duration is nine to twelve months, depending on where it is stationed.
Extensive armaments projects
Since the end of the severe financial crisis in 2018, Greece has started to invest money in armaments again. Over the past six years, 24 French Rafale fighter jets have been purchased from France and four Belharra frigates have been ordered. In addition, numerous F-16 air force jets are being upgraded to the modern F-16 Viper standard. According to government information, the purchase of new Israeli air defense systems is also planned.
