Greece and Italy Finalise Naval Frigate Agreement

The news in Greek

1. υπογράφω
   Το να βάζεις την υπογραφή σου σε κάποιο έγγραφο. ↩︎
2. απόκτηση  (f.)
   Η πράξη του να αποκτάς κάτι. ↩︎
3. ενισχύω
   Το να κάνεις κάτι πιο δυνατό ή να το υποστηρίζεις. ↩︎
4. ικανότητα  (f.)
   Η δυνατότητα να κάνεις κάτι καλά. ↩︎
5. προστασία  (f.)
   Η διαδικασία του να φυλάς ή να υπερασπίζεσαι κάτι. ↩︎
6. παραδίδω
   Το να δίνεις κάτι σε κάποιον, συνήθως αφού έχει ζητηθεί. ↩︎

Translation

Text comprehension

Question 1: How many frigates does Greece plan to acquire from Italy?

Question 2: By when is the first frigate likely to be delivered?

Vocabulary

Greek	English
υπογράφω	to sign
απόκτηση  (f.)	acquisition
ενισχύω	to strengthen
ικανότητα  (f.)	ability
προστασία  (f.)	protection
παραδίδω	to deliver

Read the full story

The Hellenic Navy has taken a significant step forward with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Italy, opening the way for the acquisition of up to four Bergamini-class FREMM frigates. This development follows close negotiations aimed at bolstering Greece’s maritime capabilities and strategic partnerships in the Mediterranean region.

The agreement, signed between Greece’s General Directorate of Defence Equipment and Investments and Italy’s National Armaments Directorate, marks a new chapter in Greek-Italian military collaboration. Initially, two ships are confirmed for transfer, with the option for two additional vessels at a later stage, demonstrating a commitment to long-term naval integration.

The potential acquisition has been embraced by Rome, which views the deal as part of a larger strategic alliance rather than a simple one-time sale. This perspective is facilitated by Italy’s own naval advancements, as they gradually replace older Bergamini-class frigates with the newer FREMM EVO models, thereby freeing up the existing ships for transfer without impacting their naval operations.

The Bergamini-class frigates are highly regarded for their modern design and capabilities, which include an advanced AESA KRONOS Grand Naval radar, the ATHENA combat system, and versatile weaponry capable of engaging various threats. This includes Aster 15/30 missiles, Teseo anti-ship missiles, and advanced sonar systems suited for anti-submarine warfare.

Greece is set to further enhance these vessels by potentially integrating the new ELSA missiles, ensuring compatibility across its fleet, including the Belharra frigates. This modernisation is anticipated to significantly elevate Greece’s defensive capabilities in the Eastern Mediterranean.

The acquisition aligns with Greece’s wider naval strategy, complementing its existing plans for four Belharra Standard 2++ and the modernised MEKO 200HN frigates. Such developments reinforce the country’s capacity to safeguard its sovereignty and interests in the Aegean and beyond.

Eager to finalise the agreement, the Hellenic Ministry of Defence has scheduled the next steps, including a detailed inspection of the prospective frigates and concluding discussions on technical support and configuration. Delivery of the first ship is projected to meet the strategic timeline set for the renewal of Greece’s naval fleet by 2029.

This bilateral agreement also holds significant geopolitical weight, strengthening Greece’s role in the region, and fostering economic and military ties with Italy. As the Eastern Mediterranean’s geo-political landscape evolves, this collaboration underscores the two countries’ commitment to maintaining stability and strategic balance.

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