Greece Moves for Italian FREMM Frigates

Athens Expands Naval Modernisation Programme

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis confirmed that Greece will acquire two Italian FREMM frigates under a deal valued at roughly €800 million.

The programme forms part of Athens’ broader naval modernisation effort aimed at strengthening operational readiness across the Eastern Mediterranean.

During the latest National Security Government Council meeting, known as KYSEA, the Greek government formally approved the acquisition plan.

Italian FREMM Frigates to Join Greek Navy
Carlo Bergamini and Virginio Fasan Selected

The selected vessels are the Carlo Bergamini and Virginio Fasan currently serving with the Italian Navy.

If negotiations proceed without disruption, Greece expects deliveries in 2029 and 2030.

Athens also approved a mid-life modernisation programme for the existing MEKO 200 HN frigates already operating within the Greek fleet.

Mitsotakis additionally announced plans to procure new encryption devices designed to maximise communications security for the Greek Armed Forces.

Weapons and Support Packages Raise Programme Cost
Final Cost Could Reach €850 Million

Officials estimate the initial acquisition cost of the ships and existing onboard systems between €480 million and €500 million.

However, the full programme cost rises significantly once Greece adds missiles, torpedoes, ammunition packages and long-term logistical support.

Current projections place the total programme value between €750 million and €850 million depending on the selected support duration.

Greece and Italy Advance G2G Defence Agreement
Final Contract Expected Before End of 2026

Greece and Italy plan to execute the programme through a government-to-government defence agreement.

Reports suggest both sides aim to sign the final contract before the end of 2026.

The agreement reflects growing defence cooperation between Mediterranean NATO members facing evolving maritime security challenges.

Strategic Insight

Greece continues shifting toward a networked naval force built for high-intensity regional operations.

FREMM frigates provide advanced anti-air, anti-submarine and surface warfare capabilities compared with older legacy platforms.

Combined with upgraded MEKO frigates, the new ships could significantly improve Greece’s maritime deterrence posture across the Eastern Mediterranean.

Source:DefenceTurk