Since May 21, the first FDI frigate built by Naval Group for the Hellenic Navy has been conducting its sea trials prior to delivery to the institution. These trials are being carried out under the supervision of Greek naval authorities in the waters near the French city of Lorient, located in the Brittany region. Specifically, the ship in question is the HS Kimon, which must pass various tests outlined based on the experience gained by the manufacturer during trials of the French Navy’s Amiral Ronarc’h frigate.
Expanding on some of the details presented by the company regarding this trial period, it has been specified that it will be divided into two main phases, which are expected to proceed more quickly than those conducted with the aforementioned French vessel. In the recently started phase, the frigate’s main systems will be tested, with special emphasis on its propulsion and navigation systems. If this stage is passed successfully, the second phase of the trials is expected to begin in the coming weeks, during which its combat systems and the ship’s endurance at sea will be evaluated.
It is useful to recall at this point that the Hellenic Navy is preparing not only to receive the HS Kimon during this year but also for the launching of the third and, for now, last ship that makes up the FDI frigate fleet ordered from Naval Group; this is the HS Formion. In this regard, official communications from the French manufacturer indicate that the navy could have all three units operational by 2026, while specialized media reports suggest that Athens is looking to expand its naval capabilities with an additional vessel, although this has yet to be officially confirmed.
Reviewing the characteristics of this class of frigates, we can confirm that these are ships with a length of 122 meters and a beam of about 18 meters, within which the more than 4,500 tons displaced by each are contained; with enough space to accommodate helicopters or drones of up to 10 tons on the stern and a propulsion system that allows speeds of up to 27 knots. In terms of armament, the HS Kimon will be equipped with up to 32 Aster missiles, 8 Exocet MM40 B3c missiles, RAM missiles, a 76 mm cannon, and 4 MU90 torpedo tubes.
Finally, it is worth mentioning that today the Hellenic Navy is not only focused on modernizing its surface capabilities. It has been known since April that it will also invest resources in a significant modernization program for its German-designed U214 attack submarines. Considering it currently operates a fleet of four vessels—the HS Papanikolis, HS Pipinos, HS Matrozos, and HS Katsonis—Athens aims to increase their capabilities by installing upgrades to their ISUS 90 combat system to make them compatible with the new DM2A4 SeaHake Mod 4 torpedoes and new countermeasure systems, among other elements. All of this is part of a significant investment policy that foresees spending over 25 billion euros in the coming years to renew Greece’s defense capabilities.
*Image credits: Naval Group
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