Greek officials inspect progress on FDI frigates at Naval Group shipyard in Lorient.

According to information published by the Greek embassy in France on June 6, 2024, Defense Minister Nikos Dendias, alongside Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Secretary of State Chrysoula Zacharopoulou, visited the Naval Group shipyard in Lorient.
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FDI frigate Nearchos and Formion. (Picture source: Twitter account of Kyriakos Mitsotakis)

The visit included a comprehensive briefing on the construction of the Hellenic Navy's FDI frigate, Kimon, which is progressing rapidly. During the tour, the Greek delegation was also shown the dry dock, where they received updates on the construction progress of two additional FDI frigates, Nearchos and Formion.

About the program

The program involves the construction of three advanced frigates, with an option for a fourth, under a contract signed in March 2022 between Greece and the French Naval Group.

These frigates, known as the Kimon-class in Greek service, are designed to provide robust capabilities in various combat domains, including anti-air, anti-surface, anti-submarine, and asymmetric warfare.

Each frigate is equipped with state-of-the-art armaments and systems, such as the Aster 30 surface-to-air missiles, Exocet MM40 Block 3C anti-ship missiles, MU90 torpedoes, and the CANTO anti-torpedo decoys. Additionally, they feature advanced radar and electronic warfare systems developed by Thales, ensuring superior situational awareness and defensive measures​​.

The lead ship, HS Kimon, was launched in October 2023. The second ship, HS Nearchos, is scheduled for its maiden voyage later in 2024. The third frigate, HS Formion, had its keel laid in April 2024, with completion expected in 2025.