Naval Group to Launch Second Kimon-Class Frigate, Nearchos

Naval Group is set to launch the Nearchos, the second Kimon-class frigate for Greece, on September 19, 2024, at its Lorient shipyard.

This follows the successful launch of its sister ship, Kimon, exactly one year ago. The Kimon-class frigates, designated as Frégate de Défense et d'Intervention Hellenic Navy (FDI HN), are based on the French FDI design.

The Nearchos launch depends on final technical inspections and weather conditions. It coincides with the start of sea trials for the French frigate Amiral Ronarc’h, the lead ship of the FDI program.

Kimon-class frigates are equipped for anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine warfare. They feature advanced weaponry, including MBDA Exocet MM40 B3C missiles, Aster missiles, RAM systems, MU90 torpedoes, and a 76 mm main gun. They also support a 10-ton helicopter and a VTOL UAV.

The first ship, HS Kimon (F601), launched on October 4, 2023, marked Greece’s first major surface fleet addition in over two decades.

The third frigate, HS Formion (F603), is currently under construction, with all three Kimon-class frigates anticipated to enter service between 2025 and 2026. These new frigates will replace the aging Elli-class vessels and be deployed in the Eastern Mediterranean.