On Thursday, the Hellenic Shipyards Association (HSAS) and the Hellenic Aerospace Security & Defence Industries Group (HASDIG) signed a cooperation agreement, establishing a roadmap for closer partnership between Greece’s shipbuilding and defence sectors.

According to a joint announcement by the two associations, the memorandum sets out a comprehensive framework for synergies, networking, information exchange, and the promotion of joint initiatives, with the overarching aim of strengthening the Greek industrial base and upgrading the national defence, shipbuilding, and technology ecosystem.

More specifically, both parties have agreed to:

• Jointly develop high-tech projects in materials, systems, naval defence, and industrial innovation.
• Exchange technical information and market data in areas such as advanced materials, emerging technologies, market studies, and technological trend forecasting.
• Organise joint thematic workshops and laboratories.

Also read: HASDIG – NAUDI | MoU signed for cooperation at the World Defence Show 2024

These workshops will focus on topics including:

• Digitisation of industrial production.
• Integration of artificial intelligence in shipbuilding and defence environments.
• Innovative R&D collaborations models.
• Utilisation of European funding instruments (EDF, Horizon Europe, etc.).

In parallel, a permanent Consultation Committee will be established, comprising executives from both associations, to monitor the implementation of the agreement and to formulate new proposals for cooperation.

Furthermore, the two sides have committed to:

• Promoting the participation of Greek companies in European clusters, joint ventures, and cross-sectoral consortia

• Supporting human resources development through technical training, university-industry linkages, and the engagement of young scientists

The memorandum also introduces a structured mechanism of regular meetings at both administrative and technical levels, aimed at jointly analysing technological challenges and identifying strategic opportunities in the domestic and international markets.

A central element of the cooperation, as highlighted in the announcement, is the commitment to exploring the production of nationally designed ships with a strong domestic technological and shipbuilding footprint. This initiative is aligned with national priorities to:

• Enhance the defence effectiveness and operational flexibility of the Hellenic Armed Forces
• Improve supply chain resilience and security

• Generate added value for the Greek economy and create high-quality employment opportunities

Additionally, the memorandum foresees joint engagement with international research hubs, startups, clusters, and technology platforms, with the ambition to create a national hub of knowledge, innovation, and export-oriented production.

Also read: EDF 2023 | Companies – Members of HASDIG actively participate in European research programs