In a significant development that could reshape the naval dynamics in the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas, South Korea has extended a comprehensive defense cooperation offer to Greece, featuring the construction and co-production of its cutting-edge KSS-III submarines. This proposal, reported by the prominent Greek newspaper Ekathimerini on August 9, 2025, comes at a pivotal time when Athens is actively seeking to modernize its underwater fleet to maintain strategic parity amid regional tensions. The KSS-III, also known as the Dosan Ahn Chang-ho class, stands out not just for its advanced technology but for its potent strike capabilities, including the ability to deploy cruise and ballistic missiles, making it a formidable asset for any navy looking to enhance its offensive and defensive postures.
The KSS-III submarines represent the pinnacle of South Korean naval engineering, entirely designed and manufactured domestically as part of the Republic of Korea Navy’s ambitious KSS-III program. These vessels boast a submerged displacement of approximately 3,705 tons and measure an impressive 83.5 meters in length. What sets them apart is their innovative propulsion system, which integrates traditional diesel-electric batteries with indigenously developed fuel cells. This hybrid approach allows for extended underwater operations, with an endurance of up to 20 days without surfacing, providing unparalleled stealth and operational flexibility. The larger hull design accommodates greater storage for supplies, advanced equipment, and a larger crew complement, enabling prolonged missions in vast oceanic expanses. This enhanced capacity also translates to superior payload options, allowing the submarines to carry a wider array of weapons and sensors while minimizing acoustic signatures that could betray their position to adversaries.
Greece’s interest in new submarines stems from a broader naval modernization initiative announced by Defense Minister Nikos Dendias in late June 2025. Dendias highlighted the importance of fiscal responsibility, insisting that every euro allocated to defense must yield maximum value for the Greek taxpayer. Currently, the Hellenic Navy operates four Papanikolis-class submarines (Type 214 models sourced from Germany), which are slated for upgrades. However, the aging Type 209 submarines—comprising the Poseidon, Okeanos, and Glavkos classes—are due for replacement to ensure the fleet remains combat-ready. This push for renewal is driven by the need to counterbalance Turkey’s expanding naval capabilities. Ankara currently fields a dozen submarines across the Altilay, Gür, and Preveze classes, and is advancing with six new Type 214/TN Reis-class units. Additionally, Turkey is investing in indigenous projects like the MILDEN and Nükden programs, which aim to produce next-generation submarines with advanced features. For Greece, maintaining superiority in subsurface warfare is crucial in the contested waters of the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean, where geopolitical rivalries often simmer just below the surface.
While the exact specifications for Greece’s future submarines remain under wraps, local media outlets have speculated that cruise missile launch capabilities are high on the priority list. The KSS-III excels in this regard, equipped to handle the Chonryong cruise missiles for precision strikes against land or sea targets. More intriguingly, it incorporates a vertical launch system (VLS) tailored for the Hyunmoo 4-4 submarine-launched ballistic missiles. These missiles offer a striking range of about 500 kilometers and can deliver a one-ton payload, providing a robust sea-based deterrent. This setup aligns seamlessly with South Korea’s Korea Massive Punishment and Retaliation (KMPR) doctrine, which emphasizes overwhelming retaliatory strikes to neutralize threats swiftly. By adopting such technology, Greece could gain a strategic edge, enabling it to project power beyond its immediate coastal defenses and respond effectively to potential aggressions.
The South Korean bid faces stiff competition from established European players, including France’s Naval Group, Spain’s Navantia, Germany’s TKMS (ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems), and Sweden’s Saab Kockums. These companies have long histories in submarine construction and have supplied vessels to numerous navies worldwide. However, South Korea, spearheaded by Hanwha Ocean, is differentiating its offer through a multifaceted package that goes beyond mere procurement. The proposal includes not only the delivery of four KSS-III submarines but also the modernization of Greece’s existing Papanikolis fleet. Crucially, it incorporates technology transfers to facilitate local construction in Greek shipyards, with a mandated minimum of 25 percent involvement from the domestic defense industry. This aligns with recent directives from the Greek Ministry of Defense, which prioritize industrial participation to bolster national capabilities and create jobs.
Expanding the scope of collaboration, South Korea’s offer extends to co-production of military vehicles and joint development of collaborative combat drones. These drones are envisioned to integrate with the KF-21 Boramae fighter jet, manufactured by Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), forming a networked ecosystem for multi-domain operations. Such synergies could revolutionize Greece’s defense posture, allowing for seamless coordination between air, land, and sea assets. In response, Athens has sought detailed breakdowns on technical specifications, industrial involvement, and financial arrangements, underscoring a commitment to transparency and value-driven decision-making.
This initiative is part of the European Union’s Strategic Agenda for the Future of Europe (SAFE) program, which encourages defense industrial cooperation and capacity-building among member states. For South Korea, engaging with Greece represents a strategic foothold in the European market, where it can showcase its technological prowess and foster long-term partnerships. By offering high-tech solutions with substantial local content, Seoul positions itself as a viable alternative to traditional suppliers, potentially accelerating Greece’s modernization timeline while promoting greater self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
Nevertheless, the path forward for Greece involves careful deliberation. Factors such as cost-effectiveness, delivery timelines, and interoperability with existing NATO systems will be pivotal. In an era of budgetary constraints and evolving threats, Athens must weigh the KSS-III’s advanced features against competing bids. The inclusion of ballistic and cruise missile capabilities could tip the scales, offering not just defensive depth but offensive reach in a volatile region. As discussions progress, this proposal underscores the shifting landscape of global defense alliances, where non-traditional players like South Korea are increasingly influential.
Ultimately, if adopted, the KSS-III submarines could herald a new chapter in Greek naval history, enhancing deterrence and operational versatility. With their stealthy endurance, missile prowess, and integration potential, these vessels promise to safeguard Greece’s maritime interests for decades to come. As the world watches, this collaboration could set a precedent for innovative defense partnerships in Europe and beyond.
