By Stamatis Zisimou

The development of the Greek space industry is entering a new phase, prioritizing domestic microsatellite production, the construction of a large satellite and the operation of a government space hub—all aligned with a strategy that integrates space technology into everyday life.

The first two operational satellites equipped with SAR (Synthetic Aperture Radar) technology, are scheduled to launch in mid-November, part of the 200 million National Microsatellite Program, funded by the Recovery Fund and in collaboration with the European space agency.

Government actions

As the Minister of Digital Governance and Artificial Intelligence, Dimitris Papastergiou, pointed out in his exclusive statements to Naftemporiki, “from 2026, with the operation of the first Greek microsatellite production line ‘made in Greece’, we are moving to a new level of technological self-reliance. And we are not stopping here. We are already planning the next phase of the Program. In collaboration with the Ministry of National Defense, we aim to utilize resources from SAFE, the new European financial tool that strengthens member states in their joint investments in the defense industry. In this context, we are considering the development of a large satellite that will enhance the national capabilities of secure communications, with applications in both defense and security and protection of citizens.”

“As in every phase of the Program, our basic principle remains the same: a significant part of the technology and production will be done in Greece. Thus, each new step translates into investment, know-how and further strengthening of the domestic innovation ecosystem,” he explained.

“The National Microsatellite Program is not just a technological project; it is a strategic choice that unites space with everyday life, building a stronger, more efficient, more rational and more autonomous Greece,” he said.