Article

A study conducted by European Innovation Solutions for the Central Union of Chambers of Greece indicates that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are seeking to enter the defense market. Presented during the KEEE General Assembly in Patras in December 2025, the study highlights the strategic changes prompting Europe's push for technological and productive autonomy in defense.

Greek businesses can engage in joint ventures, subcontracts, and procurements related to defense systems both domestically and internationally. They can also participate in innovation opportunities under the European Defense Fund and the revised structural funds for Defense Research and Innovation.

Additionally, the European STEP strategy encourages SMEs to invest in technologies to bolster defense readiness. The study aims to assess Greek SMEs' capabilities for defense programs and propose financial support mechanisms based on specific criteria, including a minimum turnover of 2 million euros and relevance to various technological sectors.