At the 10th Delphi Economic Forum on Friday, April 11, 2025, Greek Minister of National Defense Nikos Dendias presented the country’s new defense doctrine, outlining critical elements of its military procurement strategy. In a conversation with ERT journalist Apostolos Maggiriadis, Dendias discussed Greece’s interest in acquiring used Italian FREMM-class (Bergamini) frigates and the progress of the FDI frigate program. He also linked these initiatives to a broader effort aimed at strengthening the domestic defense industry.
FDI Frigates with Cruise Missiles and the Prospect of a Fourth Belharra
Dendias confirmed Greece’s intention to procure a fourth Belharra-class frigate, equipped—like two of the three already on order—with SCALP NAVAL cruise missiles. He described the new vessel as a “next-generation frigate” equipped with strategic weapons.
He remarked:
“The three Belharra frigates are the best in the world, the best equipped, and the most advanced—without a trace of exaggeration.”
Regarding the acquisition of the fourth FDI/BELHARRA frigate, he noted:
“That said, Mr. Maggiriadis, we need to agree on the cost. You know, we’re not a wealthy country. We are therefore obliged to be very prudent and to negotiate intensively. We also expect help from a friendly country and a friendly company.”
Talks on Used Italian FREMM Frigates
The minister also revealed that Greece is considering the acquisition of two used Italian FREMM (Bergamini-class) frigates, stressing both their operational value and their connection to the U.S. Constellation-class next-generation frigates.
As he stated:
“The FREMM is the precursor to the Constellation, which we aspire to discuss and co-produce with the United States.”
Boosting the Greek Defense Industry: 25% Participation Target
Dendias highlighted a French proposal for co-production of frigates and submarines at the Skaramangas Shipyards, calling it “extremely interesting.” He stressed that the General Directorate for Armaments has been instructed to ensure at least 25% Greek participation in each defense program.
“We want Greek companies to be involved,” he said, noting that the era of direct purchases without domestic involvement, typical of the early post-bailout years, is now over.
Greece is now pursuing a 20-year defense procurement strategy (12+8 years) that emphasizes system standardization and domestic industrial participation.
“Achilles’ Shield” Program: A Holistic Defense Vision
Addressing the “Achilles’ Shield” program, Dendias explained:
“We’re creating what we call ‘Achilles’ Shield’—a holistic approach that brings together all our defense capabilities.
We chose the name not only for its mythological resonance or the hero’s immense strength but also because it has five layers. This dome also has five layers—designed to counter aircraft, missiles, drones, ships, and underwater threats. It’s meant to defend the entirety of our territory.”
He added that traditional defense systems—new frigates, future submarines, advanced fighter jets like the Rafale and F-35—will operate as independent deterrent units. These systems, equipped with strategic weapons, will be capable of functioning beyond homeland defense.
“Greece has never had such capabilities before. We didn’t even have the mindset. I believe we’re entering a new era, and it’s telling that this vision was understood despite the tense political climate.
When the cameras turned off, two political parties voted in favor of the plan. Except for the Greek Communist Party, which traditionally votes against any defense spending—even a single euro—all other parties reserved judgment. What was heard clearly mattered to them.”
Next Steps for the Ministry of Defense
The Ministry of National Defense’s new strategic vision signals a clear shift towards greater operational autonomy, enhanced negotiation leverage in defense procurement, and a renewed focus on domestic production capacity. These priorities align closely with both Minister Dendias’ statements and the recent announcements by the Hellenic Center for Defence Innovation SA (HCDI – ΕΛΚΑΚ).
