Hellenic Navy’s FDI frigates to feature Exail’s navigation systems

July 8, 2025, by Fatima Bahtić

French shipbuilder Naval Group has selected Exail to provide navigation systems for the Hellenic Navy’s defense and intervention frigates (FDI).

The contract includes interoperable technologies designed to work together. These are the Marins inertial navigation system (INS), Netans data distribution unit (DDU), and Gecdis-W WECDIS (warship electronic chart display and information system), all integrated within the frigates’ advanced cybersecure digital architecture.

To support these advanced capabilities, Exail’s navigation systems are engineered to deliver high performance and resilience. Specifically, they will provide:

• The Marins INS – precise, high-performance inertial sensing essential for accurate navigation;
• The Netans DDU – cybersecure, reliable, and efficient data sharing across the ship’s systems, safeguarding operational integrity even in contested environments;
• The Gecdis-W WECDIS – advanced tactical electronic chart display and navigation functionalities, in compliance with the latest STANAG standards.

The systems will enable the FDI frigates to maintain situational awareness and mission effectiveness in all operational conditions.

“The selection of Exail’s navigation systems for the Hellenic Navy’s FDI frigates reflects our commitment to delivering reliable and cybersecure solutions that address the evolving challenges of naval operations,” said Pierre-Louis Roudaut, Sales Manager at Exail.

“We are proud to support the Hellenic Navy with proven technology that enhances operational confidence and security.”

This contract builds on the longstanding collaboration between Exail and Naval Group, following the successful integration of Exail’s navigation systems on the French Navy’s FDI frigates.

To remind, last month, Naval Group held a launching ceremony for the third FDI frigate, HS FORMION, built for the Hellenic Navy. The three Hellenic frigates are now at an advanced stage of production. HS KIMON is undergoing sea trials, and HS NEARCHOS has been transferred to the right bank for outfitting activities before harbor trials that will start after the summer.

The FDI frigates have a displacement of 4,500 tons and measure approximately 122 meters in length with a width of 18 meters.

These modern warships are capable of reaching a maximum speed of 27 knots. They are equipped with aviation facilities that can support a 10-ton class helicopter as well as a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), enhancing their operational flexibility and reconnaissance capabilities.