Greek Armed Forces to Upgrade G3 Assault Rifle Under the ‘Modern Warrior’ Program

The G3 rifle will continue to be the primary combat weapon for the Greek Army in the coming years, according to a decision by the General Staff of National Defense. To enhance its operational effectiveness based on modern battlefield lessons and the specific needs of the Armed Forces, an upgrade program has been initiated. The G3 rifle, which has served over 40 years, is set to undergo a €200 million modernization project as part of the long-term defense equipment planning. The new G3A3 rifle was recently showcased by the Ministry of National Defense leadership and includes upgrades such as ergonomic design, reduced weight, and compatibility with modern attachments like Picatinny rails and red dot sights. The program aims to cover 50% of the Army’s needs by 2027, prioritizing units like the IV Army Corps and ASDEN, with full implementation expected by 2030. Domestic defense industry participation will account for 90% of the program. Key upgrades include lighter materials, adjustable buttstocks, enhanced recoil mechanisms, and thermal/optical sights. Despite being an older technology, the G3 remains reliable and cost-effective compared to newer rifles, prompting the decision to upgrade rather than replace it entirely.