From the “Modern Warrior” and Greek kamikaze drones to the “Shield of Achilles” and the “Centaurus” system, the Ministry of National Defense pavilion at the 89th Thessaloniki International Fair is expected to be one of the main attractions, sending a message of adaptation to modern operational requirements. The two Air Force flight simulators are expected to have particular appeal, giving visitors the opportunity to “pilot” fighter aircraft, while emphasis is also placed on information about the productive schools of the Armed Forces.
Unlike previous years, the ministry pavilion from September 6 to 14 will present exclusively integrated and functional military systems, highlighting technologies that already serve national defense. At the center are three anti-drone systems from Hellenic Defense Industries (HDI), with “Centaurus” having been successfully tested in real operations by the Navy in the Red Sea, within the framework of the European “Aspides” mission. This is an electronic warfare system designed to counter MALE-type UAVs, such as Turkish Bayraktars, with target detection and tracking capabilities at distances of 20 to 140 km. It features passive detection, full survivability and jamming capability for UAV-ground communications at distances over 25 km, while allowing the operator to select targets and display the electronic battle formation in real time.
Special emphasis is placed on the first VR technology presentation of the inter-service “Shield of Achilles”, where ordinary visitors can see in practice the operation and interoperability of this defensive “shield,” which combines the new FDI frigates, F-35s and a multitude of weapons systems.
At a central point of the Defense Ministry pavilion, the public will be able to see up close the American V-BAT drone, recently acquired by the Greek Army. The system, manufactured by Shield AI, is designed for surveillance, reconnaissance and intelligence gathering missions, with vertical takeoff and landing capability and flight autonomy of up to 13 hours. With a remote control range of 130 km, it can carry electro-optical and infrared sensors, synthetic aperture radar, laser rangefinders and electronic warfare systems. Its compact design allows easy transport even with semi-trucks, while with artificial intelligence integration it can execute autonomous missions, either individually or in “swarms.”
The Navy has a dynamic presence at the exhibition, presenting the Altus drone, recently tested in the European EUNAVFOR ASPIDES operation. At the same time, the public will have the opportunity to see a new presentation of the FDI frigate, which is expected to arrive in Greece by the end of November.
Among the exhibits, the “Modern Warrior” stands out, with complete equipment and digital capabilities that capture the profile of the soldier of the future. The upgrade architecture of the uniforms is based on five levels: survival, communication, awareness, flexibility and firepower. The “modern warrior” program includes three different appearances – basic, sniper and military police – and is largely “inspired” by special operations unit uniforms.
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Interest is also expected to be drawn by the two Air Force flight simulators, used at the Air Tactics Center. Visitors will have the opportunity to virtually “execute” a mission under the guidance of experienced Air Force operators, experiencing flight alongside top pilots for the first time. This is a Greek-designed training solution that allows two civilian “pilots” to participate in a mission together with operators located at different points in the country, even in distant Andravida, and has already impressed foreign air force personnel.
Next to the simulators, the public will be able to see at the Inter-Service Research/Technological Development and Innovation Center stand a special anti-drone weapon developed in Greece as well as – for the first time in public appearance – a Greek kamikaze drone. These are real systems based on Greek know-how, proof according to the Defense Ministry that the lessons of the war in Ukraine and open military conflicts on the planet are being absorbed by Greece’s Armed Forces.
See how kamikaze drones strike:
A special place in the Defense Ministry pavilion will be occupied by presentations on the productive schools of the Armed Forces, aimed mainly at the younger generation. Interested parties will have the opportunity to be informed in detail about educational and professional prospects, to talk with personnel and to participate in interactive experiences. At the same time, information will be provided on developments in military service, flexible forms of service for conscripts, as well as programs that have already been implemented or are about to be announced. The outdoor area of the pavilion will host three impressive exhibits: a Viking S-1200 speedboat of the Armed Forces, a modern M1118GR vehicle and specialized robots from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit.
Significant this year will also be the presence of the Hellenic Defense Innovation Center, which participates in the 89th TIF with its own pavilion in the Defense Ministry’s thematic area. In this context, the Pitching Booth is inaugurated, a specially configured space where innovative Greek companies, startups and small-medium enterprises will be able to present directly to the Center solutions, technologies and products they are developing.
