Hellenic Navy’s third FDI frigate kicks off sea trials

June 24, 2026, by Fatima Bahtić

French shipbuilder Naval Group has announced that HS Formion, the third FDI frigate built for the Hellenic Navy, has commenced its first sea trials off Lorient, France.

The milestone follows the vessel’s launch at Naval Group’s Lorient shipyard in June 2025. With HS Formion now at sea, all three FDI frigates ordered by Greece have reached advanced stages of construction and testing as the program moves toward completion.

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HS Formion is the third and final ship in the Hellenic Navy’s FDI program, following HS Kimon and HS Nearchos. At the time of Formion’s launch, HS Kimon was already undergoing sea trials, while HS Nearchos entered the sea testing phase in February this year.

The FDI program has also involved significant participation from Greek industry. Construction of blocks for the frigates was carried out by Salamis Shipyards in Greece, while approximately 70 Greek companies were integrated into Naval Group’s supply chain.

The 4,500-ton frigates measure approximately 122 meters in length and 18 meters in beam and are capable of speeds of up to 27 knots. Designed as multi-mission combatants, the ships can operate a 10-ton-class helicopter alongside a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) unmanned aerial vehicle.

HS Formion and its sister ships are equipped with MBDA Exocet MM40 Block 3C anti-ship missiles, Aster surface-to-air missiles, RAM missile systems, MU90 anti-submarine torpedoes, and naval artillery systems. The vessels also feature advanced sensors and combat systems supplied by Thales, including the SeaFire radar, sonar, electronic warfare, and communications suites.

The three FDI frigates are expected to strengthen the Hellenic Navy’s air defense, anti-submarine warfare, and maritime security capabilities.