Greece’s third Belharra-class frigate, Formion, is scheduled to fly the Hellenic flag on 17 December at Naval Group’s shipyard in Lorient, France, marking another milestone in the Hellenic Navy’s modernisation programme.
Following the ceremony, Formion will remain in France for several months of systems integration work, with its arrival in Greece expected in spring 2027.
The frigate is set to feature the Standard 2+ configuration, incorporating upgraded electronics, software and improved integration between its sensors and weapons systems.
The development follows the commissioning of Kimon, the first of Greece’s three initially contracted Belharra frigates, into Hellenic Navy service. The second vessel, Nearchos (F-602), is scheduled to follow on 30 October.
The three frigates form part of Greece’s broader effort to strengthen its naval capabilities amid growing strategic challenges in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Aegean Sea.
Greek Industry Plays a Role in Frigate Construction
Greek shipbuilding is also contributing to the programme through the involvement of Salamis Shipyards, which has worked with Naval Group since 2022.
The Greek company manufactures pre-outfitted hull sections for FDI frigates built for both the Hellenic Navy and the French Navy, supporting the development of domestic industrial expertise through the international programme.
Sections destined for Formion and the fourth Greek frigate, Themistoklis, were delivered in February 2024.
The partnership highlights the role of Greek industry in the construction of the next generation of Hellenic Navy warships, while strengthening industrial cooperation between Greece and France.
Once delivered, Formion will join Greece’s expanding fleet of advanced frigates, designed to enhance the country’s air defence, anti-submarine warfare and surface combat capabilities.
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