Dendias: With Belharra Frigates ‘Kimon’, ‘Nearchos’, and ‘Formion’, We Build a Deterrent Naval Force

At the launching ceremony of the new and third in line frigate for the Hellenic Navy today (June 4, 2025), Defense Minister Nikos Dendias was present, accompanied by Chief of the Hellenic National Defense General Staff (GEETHA) Stratigos Houpi and Chief of the Hellenic Navy (GEN) Antinavarhos Dimitrios-Eleftherios Katara. Dendias was updated on the progress of the Belharra-class frigate construction program by the Director of the French Naval Group at Lorient. In his speech, the Defense Minister emphasized the strategic importance of the project and discussed ongoing negotiations for the acquisition of a fourth frigate of the same class. He stated that the launch of the ‘Formion’ is a significant milestone in upgrading Greece’s naval capabilities, symbolizing national commitment to deterrence, security, and sovereignty. The minister also thanked the armed forces personnel involved in operational trials and highlighted the strategic partnership with France as a cornerstone of stability.