Greece has officially requested access to a new 150-billion-euro European Union defense fund, joining 17 other nations in a major push to bolster the continent's security and defense industries, officials have confirmed.
The request to access the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) fund was submitted Wednesday, just ahead of the July 31 deadline for initial applications.
The new EU instrument is designed to provide loans to member states to boost their defense capabilities.
The European Commission said the strong response demonstrates the EU’s unity on security.
“SAFE is a symbol of our shared commitment to enhance our defense readiness for a safer, more unified future,” said EU Commissioner for Defence and Space, Andrius Kubilius.
The move comes as Greece is also expanding its own national armament program to 30 billion euros for the 2025–2036 period.
Countries that have applied to the SAFE fund are expected to submit detailed spending plans by November 30.