Greek Naval Modernization
Greece Finalizes Agreement With Italy to Acquire Two Used FREMM Frigates
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Key Points
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The Carlo Bergamini is expected to be delivered to Greece in the first half of 2028, with the Virginio Fasan scheduled to follow in 2029.
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The frigates are reported to carry Aster-30 air-defense missiles, Kronos radar and CAPTAS-4 sonar, with Exocet or Harpoon anti-ship missiles to be added; they are also expected to join Greece’s FDI-class ships in the country’s “Achilles’ Shield” defense network.
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The two vessels have different original roles: Carlo Bergamini is configured for general-purpose missions with strong air-defense capabilities, while Virginio Fasan is optimized for anti-submarine warfare. Greece plans to strengthen both ships’ anti-submarine capabilities and is considering fitting them with cruise missiles.
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The purchase reportedly became possible at a relatively low cost because Italy is transitioning its navy toward next-generation FREMM EVO frigates, creating an opportunity for Greece to acquire the used ships.
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The agreement was described as setting the legal, financial and technical terms for the transfer, while the two defense ministers were also expected to discuss European defense, Mediterranean security developments and regional stability.
Greece has secured two used Italian Navy frigates to bolster its fleet amid tensions with Turkey. Defense ministers from both countries signed the deal in Rome, paving the way for the Carlo Bergamini and Virginio Fasan to join the Hellenic Navy starting in 2028, according to Defense Mirror. The purchase price remains unclear, with estimates ranging from €460 million to €600 million.
The frigates represent a major modernization step for Greece. The country plans to build a fleet of 10 modern warships and will integrate these vessels into its "Achilles' Shield" defense network, Naval Today reported. Greece also retains the option to buy two more ships from Italy.
Two Ships With Different Battle Roles
The Carlo Bergamini excels at air defense with strong radar and missile systems. The Virginio Fasan specializes in hunting submarines underwater. Hurriyet Daily News notes Greece will strengthen both ships' anti-submarine capabilities after taking delivery. The vessels carry Aster-30 air-defense missiles and Kronos radar, with Exocet or Harpoon anti-ship missiles to be added.
Greece is also considering fitting the frigates with cruise missiles for longer-range strike power. The two ships complement Greece's four French-built Belharra vessels already in service. This mixed fleet gives Athens diverse capabilities across air defense, submarine warfare, and surface combat.
Why Italy Can Sell Ships at Bargain Prices
Italy is upgrading to next-generation FREMM EVO frigates, making older models available. The Carlo Bergamini will arrive in Greece's first half of 2028, with the Virginio Fasan following in 2029. Decode39 reports the transition created an opportunity for Greece to acquire capable used warships at lower costs than building new vessels.
Fincantieri, Italy's state-controlled shipbuilder, will oversee the transfer. The deal also opens doors for Italian and Greek defense companies to collaborate on upgrades and maintenance. This industrial cooperation could strengthen the broader military-industrial ties between Athens and Rome.
Greece Builds Its 10-Ship Modern Navy
The two FREMM acquisitions are part of Greece's larger naval modernization strategy. Combined with its four Belharra-class frigates, Greece will have six major modern warships by 2029. The country aims to eventually operate 10 such vessels as a credible deterrent in the eastern Mediterranean.
Mediterranean security tensions with Turkey drive this buildup. Greece's integration of the FREMM ships into the "Achilles' Shield" defense network shows a coordinated approach to regional defense. The frigates will provide advanced radar, sonar, and missile capabilities to protect Greek waters and airspace.
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