Greece is advancing plans to acquire four secondhand Italian FREMM frigates, as negotiations with Italy reach an advanced stage.
The proposed deal involves four Carlo Bergamini-class vessels to be delivered under a two-phase 2+2 arrangement. The first two ships are expected to cost approximately €700 million, a price that includes some of their primary weapons systems, as per Greek media.
Greece’s parliamentary committee on armament programs and contracts is scheduled to receive an update on the negotiations on May 5.
During the same session, lawmakers are also expected to approve two contracts for the modernisation of four MEKO-class frigates at the Skaramangas shipyards. The upgrade program will include improvements to combat systems as well as structural maintenance work.
The Italian navy has already committed the first two Bergamini-class frigates for transfer to the Hellenic Navy, indicating progress toward finalising the agreement.
The broader procurement package is expected to include maintenance support, spare parts, and crew training, with Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri likely to play a key role.
In parallel, Athens plans to equip the FREMM frigates with CAPTAS-4 towed sonar systems to align their anti-submarine warfare capabilities with those of the French-built FDI frigates already on order.
Greek officials are also reviewing options for anti-ship and anti-aircraft missile systems for the vessels.
Separately, the parliamentary committee is set to examine NATO support programs valued at €110 million, covering upgrades and support for HAWK air defence systems, PzH 2000 self-propelled artillery, and Stinger missile launchers.
By Tamilla Hasanova
