The Greek government is planning to purchase two used Bergamini-class frigates from Italy as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance its naval capabilities. These frigates, although not brand new, are large, weighing around 8,000 tonnes each, and are highly regarded for their strength and versatility.
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While buying second-hand ships may seem like a cost-saving measure, the government views this as a smart opportunity to acquire powerful warships without the extended timelines and costs associated with new builds.
The Bergamini-class frigates belong to the FREMM group, which stands for “European Multi-Mission Frigates.” The FREMM class is well known across Europe for its advanced technology and multi-role capabilities, making it an ideal choice for Greece’s defense strategy.
These ships are built to carry out a wide range of missions, including air defense, anti-submarine warfare, and surface warfare, all while being flexible enough to adapt to various future threats. The Greek government is particularly interested in these ships because of their modern design and strong performance, ensuring Greece’s naval forces remain competitive.
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Beyond their immediate capabilities, the Bergamini-class frigates also hold strategic value for Greece’s long-term defense plans. They are closely aligned with the FREMM design, which is seen as the precursor to the upcoming “Constellation” frigates. These next-generation ships are part of a project that Greece hopes to collaborate on with the United States in the future.
By acquiring these Italian frigates, Greece gains experience with a design that will be similar to the advanced warships they hope to co-develop with the U.S., making the acquisition an essential part of building a more modern and capable naval fleet.
A Larger Plan to Strengthen Greece’s Defense
This move is part of a much bigger plan. Greece is preparing to spend around €25 billion to upgrade its defense over the next few years. This money will go into buying different types of military equipment, including submarines, drones, and new systems to protect against air attacks and drone threats.
Along with the planned purchase of Bergamini-class frigates from Italy, these investments are aimed at enhancing Greece’s naval and overall defense capabilities.
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The country already spends a significant portion of its economy on defense—about 3% of Greece’s total GDP is allocated to military needs. This is nearly twice the average amount spent by other European Union countries.
In addition to the Bergamini-class frigates, Greece is also in talks with France to buy a fourth French Belharra frigate. These advanced ships come with long-range cruise missiles that can hit targets with precision. The combination of these French frigates and the Bergamini-class frigates is set to bolster Greece’s defense infrastructure significantly.
Three French Belharra frigates are already on their way to Greece and are expected to arrive in the next two years. Officials consider these ships to be some of the most advanced warships in the world, with cutting-edge equipment and design. When combined with the addition of the Bergamini frigates, Greece’s naval fleet will be greatly strengthened, ensuring that the country is well-equipped to face modern defense challenges.
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Greece Pushes for Local Involvement in Defense Deals
Greece is also focusing on making sure its own companies benefit from these defense deals. The government is giving special attention to any offer that includes production or co-production inside Greece. Along with the planned purchase of the Bergamini-class frigates from Italy, the government aims to ensure that local companies play a key role in the country’s defense sector.
There is already a proposal from France to set up a production line for frigates and submarines in Greece’s Skaramanga shipyards. This idea has caught the attention of Greek officials, particularly as it could offer a chance for Greek companies to participate in building advanced defense equipment, including the Bergamini-class frigates. The government is especially interested in deals that would involve local manufacturing, ensuring that Greece can strengthen its defense capabilities while benefiting from domestic involvement.
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The government has instructed its arms agency to ensure that Greek companies get at least 25% of the work in any new defense contract. This is meant to support local industry and create jobs within the country, including potential work related to the acquisition and production of Bergamini frigates. By focusing on both foreign purchases like the Bergamini-class frigates and local production, Greece is aiming to enhance its defense infrastructure and support its economy at the same time.