Naval Group has taken a significant step in enhancing the capabilities of the Hellenic Navy by signing a cooperation agreement with the Greek firm ALTUS LSA. This agreement, finalized at the DEFEA exhibition in Athens, aims to facilitate the integration of drones onto various surface ships in the Greek naval fleet, particularly targeting advanced warships such as the FDI frigates and Gowind corvettes.
Among the potential drone candidates for this initiative, the ATLAS-8 has been identified as a promising option. This electric octocopter platform is designed primarily for cargo transportation and boasts an impressive payload capacity of 50 kilograms (approximately 110 pounds). Its modular design allows for versatility in deployment, enabling the integration of missiles and other weapons for various strike missions. Additionally, the ATLAS-8 is equipped with an inertial navigation system that enables operation in environments where GPS signals may be unavailable, enhancing its operational flexibility.
The collaboration with ALTUS LSA reflects Naval Group’s strategic vision of leveraging drone technology to bolster naval operations. The company has recognized the growing potential of utilizing drones on maritime platforms, enhancing both surveillance and operational capabilities.
In tandem with this initiative, Naval Group has also entered into a partnership with the Hellenic Aerospace Industry (HAI) to explore the integration of the Centaur counter-drone system onto Greek naval vessels. The FDI frigate, constructed by Naval Group, is currently being considered for this integration, which aims to address the increasingly relevant challenge of aerial threats.
Naval Group has highlighted HAI’s expertise in aeronautical solutions and maintenance as a valuable asset for the development of the FDI program for the Hellenic Navy. This collaboration not only represents a commitment to enhancing naval defense capabilities but also opens doors for future cooperative programs that may further strengthen Greece’s maritime security posture.
