Greece Eyes Italian FREMM Frigates: Between Concrete Talks and Rumors

Rumors continue to circulate in the Greek media regarding the potential acquisition by the Hellenic Navy of two Italian FREMM frigates. The latest report came on July 31 from the newspaper Political, which referred to ongoing discussions between Athens and Rome. However, these claims should be taken with caution: both the number of ships involved and the estimated figures are often vague or lack official confirmation.

Beyond the speculation, Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias had already publicly acknowledged interest in the Italian ships as part of a broader €25 billion modernization plan for the Greek Armed Forces. The most credible scenario points to the transfer of two FREMM-class Bergamini frigates currently in service with the Italian Navy: the Carlo Bergamini (F590) and the Virginio Fasan (F591), both commissioned in 2013.

Proven and Ready Vessels

Although not the newest in the Italian fleet, both frigates remain highly capable and operational assets, fully NATO-interoperable and ready for deployment. This would make them a rapid-response solution for Greece, providing an immediate boost to its naval capabilities in a period of growing attention to security in the Eastern Mediterranean.

The financial side is also noteworthy: the two frigates could be sold for around €300 million each, making them significantly more affordable than the newer French-built FDI frigates already ordered by Greece.

FREMM and FDI: Complementary, Not Competing

It is important to clarify that the potential acquisition of the Italian FREMMs would not replace Greece’s FDI Kimon-class frigates but rather complement them. The Italian ships would serve as an interim measure, filling operational gaps while Greece awaits the delivery of its more advanced, air-defense-focused French frigates.

The FREMMs, in contrast, offer multi-role (Bergamini) and anti-submarine warfare (Fasan) capabilities, equipped with full weapons suites, modern sensors, and the ability to operate heavy helicopters. Technically, they measure over 144 meters in length, displace 6,700 tons, and can reach speeds exceeding 27 knots.

A Strategic Opportunity for Italy

For the Italian Navy, this potential deal fits into a broader fleet renewal strategy: beginning in 2029, Italy is scheduled to introduce the new FREMM EVO frigates—an upgraded version of the current Bergamini-class, with enhanced radar and combat systems.

Selling these two ships would allow Italy to partially fund the modernization process, while also reinforcing strategic ties with a key Mediterranean ally. If confirmed, the move would carry strong political significance within the broader framework of Euro-Mediterranean relations and NATO cooperation on the Alliance’s southeastern flank.