Greece Italy Sign Agreement For Up To Four FREMM Frigates

Greece and Italy have signed a significant naval cooperation agreement that includes the acquisition of up to four Italian Bergamini-class FREMM frigates to modernize the Hellenic Navy. Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias and his Italian counterpart Guido Crosetto formalized the deal in La Spezia, highlighting the strategic partnership and enhanced defense collaboration between the two countries amid regional security challenges. The acquisition complements Greece's broader defense plans, which also involve new French Belharra frigates and submarine purchases, aimed at countering tensions with Turkey. The deal includes a support package managed by Fincantieri, ensuring operational readiness and future naval capabilities. Both ministers emphasized the importance of compatibility in weapons systems, specifically the integration of new generation missiles to maximize deterrent power. This agreement marks a new era in Greek naval capabilities, bridging gaps caused by past economic hardships and reinforcing EU and Mediterranean defense cooperation.