The Naval Group has launched the Hellenic Navy’s third FDI frigate, HS FORMION, at its shipyard in Lorient, France.
This event signifies a crucial step in strengthening the maritime superiority of the Hellenic Navy in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea.
HS FORMION, weighing 4,500 tonnes (t), is a multipurpose and resilient warship equipped with advanced capabilities for various naval combat scenarios, including anti-submarine, anti-air and anti-ship operations.
It also features special forces projection and capabilities against asymmetric threats.
The frigate can also accommodate a helicopter and an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) simultaneously, showcasing the collaborative expertise of Thales, MBDA, and other partners.
With all three FDI frigates now afloat on the Scorff river, the programme has reached an advanced stage.
HS KIMON is currently undergoing sea trials, while HS NEARCHOS is being outfitted in preparation for harbour trials set to commence post-summer. The delivery of the three frigates is scheduled for 2025 and 2026.
The current phase of HS KIMON’s sea trials is focused primarily on assessing platform systems such as propulsion and navigation.
A second phase is scheduled in the coming weeks and will concentrate on the vessel’s combat systems and endurance at sea.
The technical specifications of the FDI frigate include a length of approximately 122 metres (m), a width of 18m, and a maximum speed of 27 knots. Aviation facilities cater to a 10t class helicopter and a VTOL UAV.
The main armaments comprise 32 Aster missiles, eight Exocet MM40 B3c missiles, RAM missiles, a 76 mm gun, four torpedo tubes with MU 90 torpedoes, and two decoy launchers with CANTO countermeasures, all developed to enhance the operational capabilities of the Hellenic Navy.
Sign up for our daily news round-up!
Give your business an edge with our leading industry insights.
