Greece is approaching a major milestone in its naval modernization program as it prepares to commission the FDI-class (Frigate Defense and Intervention) belharra frigate Kimon, the first digitally integrated warship to enter service with the Hellenic Navy. The formal flag-raising ceremony will take place in Lorient, France, officially marking the frigate’s transition into active Greek naval service.

France’s Naval Group built Kimon as a core element of Greece’s effort to modernize its surface fleet. Through this program, Athens introduces advanced network-centric capabilities designed to meet the demands of modern maritime operations.

Ceremony in Lorient with High-Level attendance

Naval Group will host the commissioning ceremony at its Lorient shipyard, where Kimon recently completed final sea trials. Greece’s Minister of National Defense, Nikos Dendias, will attend the event alongside senior military leadership, including the chiefs of the Hellenic National Defense General Staff and the Hellenic Navy General Staff.

At the same time, Minister Dendias will hold talks with his French counterpart, Catherine Vautrin. During the meeting, both sides will address bilateral defense cooperation, regional and European security developments, and the continued strengthening of the strategic partnership between Greece and France. In particular, discussions will emphasize collaboration in the defense industry.

Greece’s Belharra Frigates and the Shift to Digital Naval Warfare

The FDI-class ships, widely known as Belharra-class frigates, rely on a fully digital architecture. They combine advanced sensors, integrated combat management systems, and networked warfare capabilities. As a result, these frigates significantly improve situational awareness, interoperability with allied forces, and survivability in complex operational environments.

Following the completion of its testing program, Kimon will sail to Greece in the first days of the new year. Upon arrival, authorities will organize a formal reception ceremony, highlighting the strategic importance of the program within national defense planning.

The Next Phase of Naval Renewal after the induction of four belharra frigates

Greece’s long-term naval strategy foresees the induction of four FDI-class frigates, while plans also include at least two Bergamini-class frigates by the early 2030s. Through this fleet renewal, the Hellenic Navy aims to enhance air defense, anti-submarine warfare, and multi-domain operational capabilities.

Currently, three FDI frigates are at different stages of construction and delivery:

• HS Kimon (F-601) is completing final procedures ahead of delivery and commissioning
• HS Nearchos (F-602) entered the water in September 2024
• HS Phormion (F-603) followed with its launch in mid-2025

Fourth belharra frigate approved with enhanced capabilities

Meanwhile, Greece moved forward with the program’s next phase in mid-November by signing a €982 million contract for a fourth FDI belharra frigate. The General Directorate for Defense Armaments and Investments concluded the agreement, which increases Greek industrial participation to roughly 25 percent of the total program value.

The government will spread payments for the fourth frigate through 2030. Earlier this year, both the Government Council for Foreign Affairs and Defense and parliament approved the acquisition as part of broader efforts to strengthen the surface fleet.

HS Themistocles: The most advanced variant

The fourth frigate will carry the name Themistocles and will enter service in an enhanced configuration. Although it follows the Standard 2 specification of the other Greek FDI frigates, it will also feature additional upgrades. Analysts often describe this version as “Standard 2++” due to its expanded operational capabilities.

With Themistocles, Greece aims to field one of the most advanced frigate groups currently entering service worldwide. Consequently, the Hellenic Navy will significantly reinforce deterrence and maritime security in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Strategic impact for Greece and Europe

The commissioning of Kimon represents more than a technological upgrade. It also reflects the deepening of Greece’s strategic defense partnerships. Through the FDI program, Greece and France continue to strengthen military and industrial cooperation, while Athens reinforces its role as a key contributor to regional and European security.

As the new frigates gradually enter service, they will play a central role in protecting maritime interests, supporting allied operations, and shaping the future operational posture of the Hellenic Navy.

Source: Greekreporter.com