Greek Defense Minister Inspects Italian Bergamini-Class Frigate

The Italian frigate ‘Carlo Margottini’ of the Bergamini class, docked in Piraeus, was visited today (March 30, 2025) by Greece’s Minister of National Defense, Nikos Dendias, accompanied by Chief of the Hellenic Navy, Vice Admiral Dimitrios-Eleftherios Katara, and Chief of the Hellenic National Defense General Staff, General Dimitris Houpa. The visit wasn’t coincidental but symbolically significant, as they were welcomed by the Chief of the Italian Navy, Admiral Enrico Credendino, who informed them about the ship’s activities. They were then guided through the vessel to learn about its capabilities, technical specifications, and missions executed. The inspection comes shortly after revelations that the Italian Navy is putting two FREMM-class frigates up for sale, with Greece showing interest. Greek officials appear keen to advance negotiations swiftly to secure two Bergamini-class frigates, similar to ‘Carlo Margottini,’ despite it not being part of the current sales plan. The ‘Carlo Margottini,’ built in 2014, offers anti-submarine capabilities, much like the ‘Virginio Fasan,’ which is reportedly on the market alongside the multi-role ‘Carlo Bergamini.’ With a displacement of 6,700 tons, these vessels are equipped with advanced weaponry including SYLVER A50 vertical launch systems for Aster missiles, Otobreda naval guns, torpedo launchers, and modern sensors like the AESA Kronos radar. Greece’s interest underscores its strategic need for surface units to meet increasing operational demands.