Greece has solidified its commitment to enhancing its naval capabilities by signing a significant contract with the French shipbuilder Naval Group for the construction of an additional defense and intervention frigate (FDI) for the Hellenic Navy. This agreement marks a pivotal step in bolstering Greece’s maritime defense, focusing on maintaining and upgrading existing capabilities within the FDI fleet.
The contract entails the acquisition of a fourth frigate, which is valued at approximately 982 million euros (around $1.1 billion). Notably, around 25 percent of the components and labor for this project will be sourced from Greek companies, reflecting a partnership that aims to boost local industry while enhancing national defense.
This latest frigate will join the FDI Hellenic Navy program, which was originally launched in 2022. The program includes three additional frigates, for which Naval Group was awarded the primary contract. As of now, the first three ships in this series are under construction, with the lead vessel expected to be delivered to the Hellenic Navy by the end of this year.
The FDIs are designed as multi-role frigates capable of executing various tactical operations, including anti-air, anti-submarine, anti-surface, and asymmetric missions. Their scalable design allows for operational flexibility, enabling them to operate independently or as part of a fleet against contemporary threats such as supersonic missiles and cyberattacks. Equipped with cutting-edge digital and data-processing systems, these vessels are built for high performance in diverse environments, ensuring operational effectiveness in rough seas as well as in warm and cold waters.
Moreover, the frigates feature compact layouts and innovative automated systems, which reduce the number of crew members required and simplify maintenance processes, thereby enhancing their operational availability. They are also constructed to NATO standards, ensuring interoperability with allied naval forces.
Sea trials conducted in challenging conditions, including high waves in the Atlantic, have affirmed the stability and performance of the FDI frigates, underscoring their readiness to take on a variety of missions. As Greece continues to bolster its naval forces amid evolving regional dynamics, this new acquisition represents a strategic investment in the country’s defense infrastructure.
