Athens, March 9, 2026 – Greece is on track to conclude negotiations and sign a contract for the acquisition of two Bergamini-class (FREMM) frigates from Italy by April, with an option for two additional vessels, Defence Minister Nikos Dendias announced in an interview published Sunday.
The announcement follows memorandums of understanding signed last year between high-level Greek and Italian officials, paving the way for deeper naval cooperation and the transfer of advanced warships from Italy’s Fincantieri shipyards.
“We hope that negotiations with Italy will be concluded and that we will have signed (a deal) for the acquisition of 2+2 frigates by April,” Dendias told Kathimerini newspaper.
The minister emphasized that Athens is pushing to equip the vessels with the next-generation ELSA missile system (Extended Long Strike Anti-ship/Anti-air), enhancing their multi-role capabilities in air defence, anti-submarine warfare, and surface strike.
The deal forms part of Greece’s ambitious multi-year defence modernisation programme, valued at approximately €28 billion. Key elements include:
- Acquisition of a fourth Belharra (FDI HN) frigate from France (Naval Group).
- Procurement of new-generation submarines.
- Upgrades to existing fleet assets.
- Investments in air defence, drones, and cyber capabilities.
These efforts aim to maintain a credible deterrent posture in the Eastern Mediterranean amid ongoing tensions with Turkey over maritime boundaries, energy rights, and airspace violations.
The Bergamini-class FREMM frigates — already in service with the Italian Navy and export customers — offer stealth design, advanced radar (including Leonardo’s Kronos Grand Naval AESA), 76mm and 127mm guns, Aster 30 missiles, and helicopter facilities. Integration of the ELSA missile would further align the ships with Greece’s evolving defence doctrine.
No official cost has been disclosed, but analysts estimate the 2+2 package could range from €2–3 billion, depending on configuration and local industry participation.
The potential agreement underscores strengthening Greece–Italy defence ties, especially within the EU and NATO frameworks, while Athens balances partnerships with France, the US, and emerging cooperation with other European shipbuilders.
Greece, France Signal Deeper Defence Cooperation During Talks
