In the presence of Defence Minister Nikos Dendias and the military leadership of the Armed Forces, the Greek flag will be raised aboard the second FDI (Belharra) frigate, “Nearchos”.
The ceremony, marking the frigate’s formal entry into service with the Hellenic Navy, will take place at midday today, Friday, 30 October 2026, at the Lorient shipyards of Naval Group in France.
It is the second modern frigate of its type, following the entry into the Hellenic Navy fleet of the first FDI, “Kimon”. The third FDI, “Formion”, is due to follow later this year, with the fourth FDI, “Themistocles”, to follow after that.
Before the Greek flag is raised aboard the ship, Mr Dendias will meet his French counterpart, Catherine Vautrin.
The bilateral meeting will focus on defence cooperation between Greece and France, regional and European security issues, and prospects for further deepening the strategic relationship between the two countries.
More specifically, particular emphasis will be placed on implementing existing agreements, cooperation in the defence industry and coordination between the two sides in response to today’s security challenges.
This will be followed by joint statements to the press.
SOURCE: ANA-MPA