ATHENS – The strategic defence partnership between Greece and France is set to take another major step forward, with French President Emmanuel Macron expected to visit Athens on April 24 for high-level talks with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.
Defence agreement renewal in focus
According to reports, the renewal and expansion of the Greece–France defence agreement will be at the centre of discussions, alongside major armament programs aimed at strengthening Greece’s military capabilities.
The visit comes at a time of intensified security concerns in the Eastern Mediterranean, with both countries seeking closer coordination on defence and deterrence.
Naval programs and submarine ambitions
French defence giant Naval Group is actively pursuing Greece’s upcoming submarine program, proposing the Blacksword Barracuda-type submarines as part of a broader naval modernisation effort.
At the same time, Greece’s FDI HN frigate program—also developed in cooperation with Naval Group—is progressing successfully:
- The second frigate “Nearchos” has already begun sea trials
- The frigate “Formion” is expected to follow shortly
These vessels are part of Greece’s wider effort to modernise its fleet and enhance operational capabilities in the region.
Growing presence in the Eastern Mediterranean
Greek-French military cooperation has expanded significantly in recent months, particularly in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Joint naval operations have included coordination between the Hellenic Navy and the French carrier strike group led by the French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle.
This cooperation is seen as critical in addressing evolving regional threats, including ballistic missile risks and broader instability linked to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.
Strategic partnership deepening
Both the Hellenic National Defence General Staff and the French Armed Forces are maintaining close operational coordination, exchanging intelligence and strengthening joint readiness.
The upcoming meeting between Mitsotakis and Macron is expected to further solidify the bilateral defence relationship, delivering mutual strategic benefits and reinforcing Greece’s role as a key security pillar in the Eastern Mediterranean
Macron Greece visit April 24, Naval Group Greece submarines, FDI HN frigates Greece, Eastern Mediterranean security cooperation
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