Greece–France Defence Cooperation Deepens with Exocet Missile Deal and Proposal for 4th FDI HN Frigate (Belharra)
Greek Minister of National Defence Nikos Dendias welcomed French Minister of the Armed Forces Sébastien Lecornu, today April 14, 2025 at the Ministry of National Defence in Athens, reaffirming the strong bilateral ties between Greece and France in the field of defence and security.
The meeting, held in a particularly warm and constructive atmosphere, underscored the commitment of both countries to enhancing their strategic cooperation. Minister Dendias emphasized the shared goal of promoting peace and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean and the wider region, while safeguarding common European values.
Contract Signed for 16 Exocet Missiles
A key outcome of the visit was the signing of a contract for the procurement of 16 Exocet MM40 Block 3c anti-ship missiles, aimed at further boosting the deterrent capabilities of the Hellenic Armed Forces.
The contract was signed by Lieutenant General Ioannis Bouras, Director General of the General Directorate for Defence Investments and Armaments (GDDIA), and Christina Ramon on behalf of MBDA (Matra – BAE – Dynamics – Alenia), the European missile systems manufacturer.
Proposal for a Fourth FDI HN Frigate
Later in the day, the two ministers visited the French frigate ALSACE (D656) docked at the port of Piraeus. From there, Minister Dendias announced his intention to propose the procurement of a fourth FDI HN (Belharra-class) frigate for the Hellenic Navy to the Government Council for Foreign Affairs and Defence (KYSEA).
This potential addition would further enhance the operational readiness and strategic presence of the Greek Navy in the region.
The developments mark another step forward in the growing defence partnership between Athens and Paris, which continues to play a pivotal role in shaping stability and security in the Mediterranean.