Greece Signs Agreement with Italy to Acquire Two FREMM Frigates
Greece and Italy have signed an agreement to acquire two FREMM frigates as Greece moves to strengthen its naval forces. According to Greece’s Ministry of National Defence, the two countries signed the implementation agreement in Rome on September 8, 2026. The ships involved are the Italian Navy’s Bergamini-class FREMM frigates Carlo Bergamini and Virginio Fasan.
Carlo Bergamini and Virginio Fasan to Be Delivered in 2028 and 2029
The first ship, Carlo Bergamini, is scheduled to be transferred to the Hellenic Navy in the first half of 2028, followed by the second ship, Virginio Fasan, in the first half of 2029. The agreement covers not only the transfer of the vessels but also initial and follow-on logistical support, maintenance, industrial participation by Greek shipyards, and certain system modifications.
The contract signed by Greece and Italy is reportedly worth approximately €460 million. It follows the memorandum of understanding on naval cooperation and the letter of intent for the acquisition of FREMM frigates signed by the two countries in September 2025.
FREMM Frigate Missions and Combat Systems
FREMM is a European multirole frigate program jointly developed by France and Italy. Depending on the configuration of each vessel, Italy’s Bergamini-class frigates can conduct anti-submarine warfare and general-purpose operations, while also supporting a range of maritime missions, including fleet air defence, sea control and escort duties.
FREMM frigates combine dedicated anti-submarine sonar, a shipboard combat management system, a vertical launch system and the ability to operate embarked helicopters. However, the final weapons and sensor configuration, as well as the scope of any upgrades before delivery, are expected to be determined through further discussions between Greece and Italy and through the maintenance plan.
Significance for the Hellenic Navy’s Modernization
The acquisition is part of the Hellenic Navy’s modernization program to replace aging surface combatants and improve its ability to sustain operations in the eastern Mediterranean. Greece is restructuring its surface fleet through the acquisition of French-built FDI frigates alongside the modernization of its existing MEKO-class frigates.
For Italy, the transfer comes as the country pursues next-generation FREMM EVO ships and adjusts the structure of its fleet. According to Fincantieri, the agreement is being pursued as a bilateral naval cooperation initiative that goes beyond a straightforward sale of ships to include maintenance and industrial cooperation.
Potential for Additional Acquisitions and Challenges Ahead
The letter of intent signed by the two countries in 2025 left open the possibility of acquiring additional ships, but the formal implementation agreement signed in September 2026 initially covers only two vessels. Whether Greece proceeds with further acquisitions will depend on its budget, operational requirements and the Italian Navy’s fleet plans.
The key challenges ahead will be completing maintenance before delivery and integrating the ships into the Hellenic Navy’s systems. If the vessels are transferred on schedule, the Hellenic Navy will begin acquiring modern surface combatants capable of long-range operations and anti-submarine warfare from 2028.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many FREMM frigates is Greece acquiring?
The official implementation agreement covers two ships. They are the Italian Navy’s Carlo Bergamini and Virginio Fasan.
When will the FREMM frigates be delivered to Greece?
Carlo Bergamini is scheduled for delivery in the first half of 2028, while Virginio Fasan is scheduled to arrive in the first half of 2029.
How much is the FREMM contract worth?
The contract signed by Greece and Italy has been reported to be worth approximately €460 million.
What missions can FREMM frigates perform?
FREMM is a multirole frigate capable of carrying out anti-submarine warfare, fleet escort, sea-control and air-defence support missions.
Why is Greece acquiring FREMM frigates?
The goal is to replace aging ships and strengthen the Hellenic Navy’s anti-submarine warfare and long-range maritime operations capabilities. The program is part of Greece’s naval modernization plan, which also includes the acquisition of FDI frigates and the modernization of its MEKO-class frigates.
