Greece Strengthens Naval Power with Purchase of French Exocet MM40 Anti-Ship Missiles
Greece has taken another major step in strengthening its military capabilities by acquiring 16 Exocet MM40 anti-ship missiles from France. The agreement was formally signed in Athens by Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias and his French counterpart, Sébastien Lecornu, during an official diplomatic visit. While the cost of the deal remains undisclosed, the move marks a significant addition to Greece’s naval arsenal and reflects its ongoing commitment to defense modernization.
The Exocet MM40 missiles are highly regarded for their advanced features and reliability in modern warfare. Designed for precision strikes at sea, these missiles have a maximum range of 250 kilometers and weigh approximately 780 kilograms. Measuring under six meters in length, they are compact but extremely powerful. The missile is guided by a combination of inertial navigation and an active electromagnetic seeker, allowing it to follow complex flight paths and engage targets even beyond the line of sight.
One of the key strengths of the Exocet MM40 is its stealth-oriented design. It can fly at very low altitudes over the sea, reducing the chance of detection by enemy radar systems. Its low radar, visual, and infrared signatures make it harder to intercept. The missile’s advanced seeker system can distinguish targets even in cluttered environments and is resistant to electronic countermeasures. With GPS functionality, the Exocet can also engage coastal land targets, making it a flexible asset in various combat scenarios.
This acquisition fits within a broader strategic push by Greece to modernize its armed forces. Athens has been consistently increasing its defense budget, and this year alone, it has more than doubled its military spending to €6.13 billion ($6.6 billion). The country stands out in NATO for its high defense expenditure—allocating over 3 percent of its GDP, a figure only matched by a few other member states such as Poland, Estonia, and Latvia.
By 2036, Greece plans to invest approximately €26 billion ($28 billion) in new military systems. This long-term effort includes the procurement of advanced air and naval platforms. Earlier this year, Greece received its 30th upgraded F-16 Viper fighter jet from Lockheed Martin, enhancing the Hellenic Air Force’s combat capabilities. Around the same time, the country also welcomed the final delivery of 24 Rafale fighter jets from France’s Dassault Aviation—another milestone in the Greek-French defense partnership.
The purchase of the Exocet MM40 missiles comes at a time when tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean remain a concern, particularly regarding maritime boundaries and energy exploration. With these new missiles, Greece is not only improving its deterrence but also reinforcing its position as a capable and modern naval power in the region.
