Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has declared a "new era" for Greek naval power as the national flag was raised aboard the Kimon, the first of three advanced frigates poised to anchor the country’s defense strategy in the Eastern Mediterranean.
"The frigate Kimon is the best proof that our armed forces are now moving into a new era," Mr. Mitsotakis stated following the ceremony at the Naval Group shipyards in France.
The induction of the Belharra-class warship marks a pivotal moment in Greece's military modernization, a program accelerated by recurring tensions with Turkey over maritime boundaries and energy rights.
The Kimon features state-of-the-art radar and missile systems designed to establish air and sea control across wide areas.
Government officials emphasized that the vessel enhances deterrence and interoperability with NATO allies.
However, domestic opposition parties Syriza and PASOK, while acknowledging the necessity of the upgrades, have pressed Mr. Mitsotakis for greater transparency regarding the balance between defense spending and social needs.
The frigate is scheduled to arrive at the Salamis naval base in 2026 after completing final systems integration.