The first Greek Belharra frigate “Kimon” arrived at Salamis Naval Base for its welcoming ceremony, marking a historic moment for the Hellenic Navy.
Built at Lorient shipyard in France, this FDI-class vessel represents the initial major step in comprehensive naval renewal.
The “Nearchos” and “Formion” frigates will follow soon, significantly strengthening Greece’s presence in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean.
Advanced defence systems
The “Kimon” frigate features cutting-edge digital air defence systems including Sea Fire radars and excels in anti-submarine warfare.
Key armaments include Aster-30 anti-aircraft missiles on A50 launchers at the bow, Exocet MM40 Block 3C surface missiles, MU90 torpedoes, RAM missiles, 76mm Oto Melara gun, and two 20mm Lionfish remote weapon stations.
Navy Chief welcomes historic ship
Hellenic Navy Chief Vice Admiral Dimitrios-Eleftherios Kataras expressed national pride yesterday: “With national pride we welcome you today to Greek seas. Your arrival heralds a new era of naval power. From your bow we gaze toward national ambitions for security, progress, and prosperity.”
He praised the crew’s exceptional performance and professionalism during handover and demanding sea trials. Kataras called them worthy successors of glorious naval heritage, noting the frigate’s reverse bow will soon join the Athenian Trireme prow and armoured cruiser “Averof” as modern “wooden walls” of the homeland.
Source: in.gr
Also read: Greek frigate “Kimon” flag raised in France – Connection to Cyprus
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