Italy has formally notified Greece of the availability of two FREMM-class frigates, the Carlo Bergamini (F 590) and Virginio Fasan (F 591), for potential transfer after 2028. The information, first conveyed to the Greek side earlier this year, is currently under review by the Ministry of National Defence. These discussions are linked to the Italian Navy’s fleet modernization, which includes the replacement of older Bergamini-class frigates with new FREMM EVO units scheduled for delivery in 2029 and 2030.
This offer marks a continuation of Greece’s broader effort to address gaps in surface combatant capabilities by supplementing its fleet with both new and used ships. The two proposed vessels were the first units built for the Italian Navy under the Carlo Bergamini-class FREMM program and entered service in 2013. The Carlo Bergamini is a General Purpose (GP) variant, while the Virginio Fasan is configured for Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW). Italian sources have clarified that only these two frigates are being offered at this stage, and there is no mention of future availability of additional units. The Italian Navy currently operates four FREMM GP and four FREMM ASW frigates, with two additional GP-e variants expected to enter service within the year.
Despite their differing configurations, both ships share many commonalities in platform design and combat capabilities. They are 144.6 meters long, displace 6,700 tons, and can reach speeds up to 27 knots. Their range at 15 knots is 6,800 nautical miles. Crew size for each is approximately 200 personnel, and both include a combination of advanced sensors and weaponry suited for multi-domain naval operations. Their twin SYLVER A50 VLS cells support medium and long-range Aster missiles, and both are equipped with advanced AESA radar, torpedoes, and heavy naval artillery. Their shared platform eases maintenance and logistical requirements while allowing for flexibility in deployment.
The Hellenic Navy’s current modernization strategy, based on three to four new Belharra-class frigates and the mid-life upgrade of four MEKO 200HN frigates and four Papanikolis-class submarines, is not considered sufficient for addressing strategic challenges in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean. The outgoing Chief of the Navy, Vice Admiral Ioannis Drymousis, emphasized this limitation in his January 2024 address and proposed the acquisition of additional multi-role frigates to replace aging S-class units.