The further military-geostrategic development of Crete enters a phase of full activation, with combined rapid reaction forces
They want to create a double “nest” of military helicopters of various types and unmanned aircraft (of the so-called UAVs – Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) in Heraklion, the Ministry of National Defense and the staffs of the Armed Forces, hoping in this way to ensure, high readiness, a capable combination of forces and rapid reaction means.
The relevant design for the base of helicopters and UAVs has not emerged, of course, now. The idea has existed for a long time and in fact preparations have been made, however now it seems – at least according to central publications – to enter a phase of full activation, in the direction of utilizing the great geostrategic importance of Crete.
Besides, both the Ministry of Defense and the officers of the Armed Forces give special weight to this part of the military reinforcement and upgrading of the role of Crete, with a point of reference, in addition to the rapid reaction forces and surveillance with helicopter and unmanned aerial vehicles, gradual transformation of Souda into a second major port in the country after that of Salamis. At the same time, with the plan to upgrade the facilities of Souda so that they can accommodate a large part of the Greek fleet, in the context of further military reinforcement and activation of Crete, it seems that the part of the reinforcement of the Army Air Force and by air surveillance of the wider area. In this direction, it seems that the creation of a base of helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) at Heraklion airport has been “locked in”, as the Ministry of Defense, GEETHA and the General Staff have implemented the plan to further strengthen Crete with the aim of more effective control. of the Eastern Mediterranean and the sea and air space in the south of the island.
Army personnel are said to have already proceeded with the design of the area where the helicopter base will be installed. In fact, the exact location has been chosen which is on the east side of the current airport of Heraklion, ie near the old military air base of the Air Force (former 126th Squadron).
It is noted that the civil airport of Heraklion is expected to be transferred in the coming years to Kastelli and consequently spaces are freed for use for the Armed Forces. The creation of the base is part of the general plan of GEETHA and the Armed Forces for the transformation of Crete into a “fortress”, for the projection of power to and from the sea in the Central and Eastern Mediterranean, given the ongoing Turkish provocation.
The creation of a second naval base in the port of Souda, equal to Salamis – which has already been launched – serves the same goal, as well as the installation of advanced capabilities radar in the east.
With the base of the Army Air Force and UAVs at Heraklion airport, the staffs seek to have a rapid reaction and transfer of forces in case of need, but also more effective control with the “flying” spies, the UAVs. In particular, according to the design, the base will have all types of helicopters, namely Chinook, Kiowa, Apache and NH-90, while Black Hawk is not excluded in the future, if acquired by the US.
In fact, for several years, senior officials had pointed out the usefulness of helicopters in Crete, as there are airborne battalions and paratroopers on the island. A base would give speed to businesses. It is noted that the base will, of course, have the necessary infrastructure for the maintenance of helicopters.
Drones – A modern weapon for surveillance of the area
A base of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is being created in the same area. The staffs want to make the most of this modern weapon that offers effective capabilities in controlling and monitoring the area. Most likely, some of the Army Sperwere UAVs are parked, which are currently being upgraded. As part of the upgrade, the Army will have brand new unmanned aircraft. However, MQ-9 UAVs may also be stationed at the base, as their acquisition by the US is underway. The base will also have an anti-aircraft unit to protect it, as well as to protect the area.
It should be noted that all the above interventions are part of the reorganization of the 5th Airborne Brigade of Crete, which is implemented by GEETHA and GES.
