Greece decides to send a frigate to the Red Sea to secure global maritime trade.

According to information published by the Greek City Times on January 18, 2024, the Greek Ministry of Defense Dendias has announced the deployment of a frigate to patrol the Red Sea.
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Elli-class frigate HS Elli. (Picture source: Hellenic Navy)

Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias emphasized the importance of the mission for the protection of merchant ships, the lives of seafarers, and the global economy. He noted the significant security challenges in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden region, highlighting the threats posed to international stability and the well-being of citizens due to the attacks on merchant ships.

Frigates of the Hellenic Navy

The Hellenic Navy, integral to Greece's maritime defense strategy, operates a variety of frigate classes, each with distinct features and capabilities. This variety allows the Navy to undertake a range of missions, from defense and surveillance to international operations.

Key among these are the MEKO 200HN frigates, part of the Hydra class. These frigates are a product of the MEKO shipbuilding concept, developed by the German shipyard Blohm + Voss.

They stand out for their advanced technology, equipped with sophisticated sensors and weapons systems. These capabilities enable them to engage in diverse warfare scenarios, including anti-air, anti-ship, and anti-submarine operations.

The MEKO 200HN frigates are also equipped with surface-to-surface missiles and electronic warfare systems, enhancing their combat readiness in various maritime environments.

In contrast, the Elli class frigates, originally the Kortenaer class from the Netherlands, represent an older generation of vessels within the Hellenic Navy. Despite their age, these frigates have undergone numerous upgrades to maintain their operational viability.

They primarily serve general-purpose roles such as patrol, surveillance, and escort missions, contributing to the Navy's versatility in addressing a range of maritime challenges.