Greek Defense Ministry Abolishes the EOTH Officer System: Benefits and Modernization

The Greek Minister of National Defense, Nikos Dendias, has prioritized the ‘Agenda 2030’ initiative to streamline both personnel matters and operational needs within the army. Following directives issued to the General Staff, the ministry is eliminating the system of Officers Outside Organic Positions (EOTH). Sources from the Ministry of National Defense describe this decision as a significant step toward modernizing the Armed Forces. The number of personnel serving in the country’s Armed Forces, particularly at higher ranks, is currently disproportionate compared to many other nations and inconsistent with the new structure envisioned by the Ministry. The reorganization of formations and units across Greece, along with consolidations, aims to address real defense threats. The need to cover service requirements based on modern battlefield developments and the creation of new service structures, such as cross-sector air defense for ‘Achilles Shield,’ unmanned aerial vehicles, and autonomous systems integration, highlight advancements. Additionally, the focus is on fairer hierarchical advancement for permanent members, better pay, training opportunities, living conditions, and promoting voluntary female enlistment. By immediately abolishing the EOTH practice, the Ministry of National Defense continues its push for Armed Forces modernization. This decision addresses long-standing issues of unequal treatment among personnel, resolves paradoxical promotion practices, and reallocates substantial financial resources towards improving active member salaries. From 2020-2025, the salary cost for 581 EOTH officers exceeded €157 million. Importantly, there will be no adverse impact on future operational needs since these personnel held office positions without modern operational skills. This move aligns with the Agenda 2030 strategy, emphasizing the necessity for personnel optimization and rapid progress in Armed Forces modernization.