Greece has added five new high-speed patrol boats to its Coast Guard fleet, a move Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said is a testament to the country's commitment to securing its maritime frontiers, which also serve as "the external boundaries of Europe."
Speaking at a delivery ceremony, Mr. Mitsotakis praised Coast Guard personnel and linked the fleet's modernization to the government's migration policy.
He credited recent measures with a 42% reduction in illegal migrant arrivals on the Eastern Aegean islands so far this year.
The new vessels, built to specifications tailored for the Aegean Sea, feature advanced defensive capabilities, including anti-ballistic protection.
They are also equipped for search-and-rescue missions, with facilities for survivors.
Mr. Mitsotakis also expressed hope that Greek shipyards will play a larger role in future procurement programs for the Coast Guard and Navy, part of a government effort to revitalize the domestic shipbuilding industry.