Naval Group and METLEN team up on submafrine and frigate projects

March 24, 2026, by Fatima Bahtić

METLEN and Naval Group formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at METLEN’s defense facilities in Volos, aiming to explore cooperation on submarine and surface ship projects for international markets.

The signing of the MoU took place on March 19, 2026, and was attended by the French Ambassador to Greece, Laurence Auer.

The agreement builds on the companies’ existing partnership, in which METLEN has contributed key components for Naval Group’s FDI frigate programs in both Greece and France.

Naval Group highlighted METLEN’s industrial expertise as a critical asset, opening potential for broader collaboration across multiple naval platforms globally.

The MoU underscores the companies’ shared objective of supporting complex naval systems and strengthening European defence capabilities, while also reinforcing Franco-Greek industrial ties.

Naval Group’s engagement with the Hellenic defence industry began in 2022 through its FDI program for the Hellenic Navy, which currently involves more than 70 Greek companies.

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Industry

Beyond the FDI program, this partnership has facilitated the integration of Greek firms into Naval Group’s supply chain for both domestic and export programs, boosting the Hellenic Defence Industrial & Technological Base (DITB).

METLEN is investing in a six-plant defence industrial hub in Volos, M Technologies Defence Hub, to expand its manufacturing capabilities and support major European defense programs. The initiative aligns with broader efforts to strengthen Greece’s and Europe’s strategic autonomy in defence and advanced technologies.