Greece Expands Naval Capabilities with Fourth FDI Frigate Order

On November 17, 2025, Greece formalized a contract with Naval Group for the construction of a fourth Defence and Intervention Frigate (FDI) for the Hellenic Navy. This contract, signed by Major General Ioannis Bouras of the Hellenic General Directorate of Defense Investments and Armaments (GDDIA) and Pierre Éric Pommellet, Chairman and CEO of Naval Group, converts a previously held option into a firm order, thereby completing the Kimon-class program. The total value of the FDI program, which includes three earlier units, is approximately €3 billion.

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The first of the four frigates, HS Kimon, is currently undergoing advanced sea trials and is expected to be delivered by the end of 2025. The subsequent vessels are scheduled for delivery between 2025 and 2026, all featuring identical upgraded configurations.

Greece Confirms Fourth FDI Frigate from France as It Expands Hellenic Navy Combat Power

The FDI frigates are compact yet powerful, measuring 122 meters in length and displacing around 4,500 tons. They are equipped with a fully digital SETIS 3.0 combat management system and a 32 MW CODAD propulsion plant, allowing for speeds of up to 27 knots and a range of 5,000 nautical miles. The armament includes advanced systems such as 32 Aster 30 B1NT area-air-defense missiles, Exocet MM40 Block 3C anti-ship missiles, and a comprehensive anti-submarine warfare suite.

Greece Secures Fourth FDI Frigate from France, Bolstering Hellenic Navy’s Regional Dominance –

These frigates are designed to operate in various maritime environments and are capable of addressing current and emerging threats, including next-generation submarines and cyberattacks. Their construction adheres to NATO standards, ensuring interoperability with allied forces.

Greek Navy Orders Fourth FDI Frigate from Naval Group

The addition of the fourth FDI frigate enhances Greece's naval capabilities amid rising tensions in the eastern Mediterranean and Aegean Sea, particularly in response to Turkey's naval expansion. The Hellenic Navy can now maintain at least two high-end frigates on station, bolstering its presence and operational readiness in a region characterized by rapid reaction requirements.

Greece Confirms Fourth FDI Frigate from France as It Expands Hellenic Navy Combat Power

This procurement is part of Greece's broader 12-year, €25 billion modernization plan, which integrates the new frigates with advanced airpower, including Rafale fighters and upgraded F-16Vs. The FDI program is expected to significantly improve Greece's maritime superiority and operational effectiveness.

Greek Navy Orders Fourth FDI Frigate from Naval Group

The contract also emphasizes industrial cooperation, with Naval Group committing to a local content target of 25% for the fourth frigate. Over 120 contracts have already been awarded to approximately 70 Greek companies, fostering partnerships in areas such as UAV integration and counter-UAS systems. This collaboration not only enhances Greece's defense capabilities but also stimulates the local economy.

Greece Confirms Fourth FDI Frigate from France as It Expands Hellenic Navy Combat Power

While the FDI program is largely viewed as a strategic enhancement for Greece, some critics argue that the focus on naval expansion may escalate regional tensions further. The ongoing maritime disputes in the Aegean and eastern Mediterranean could be exacerbated by increased military capabilities on both sides.

Greece Confirms Fourth FDI Frigate from France as It Expands Hellenic Navy Combat Power

• “We are very honoured by Greece’s order for this fourth FDI frigate. With the first three already at an advanced stage of production, this order reflects the Hellenic Navy’s confidence in these first-rank vessels. Naval Group will continue to deploy its expertise in support of the Hellenic Navy’s sovereignty and naval superiority,” — Pierre Éric Pommellet, Chairman and CEO of Naval Group

Greek Navy Orders Fourth FDI Frigate from Naval Group

• “In a region where geography compresses reaction times to minutes, the decision to exercise the fourth-ship option is not simply incremental procurement but a calculated move to lock in qualitative maritime superiority for the next generation.” — Naval News

Greece Confirms Fourth FDI Frigate from France as It Expands Hellenic Navy Combat Power

The fourth FDI frigate represents a significant step in Greece's naval modernization efforts, reinforcing its strategic position in a volatile region while enhancing its defense capabilities through local industrial partnerships.

Greece orders a fourth FDI frigate from Naval Group