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French Defense Minister visits Greece, discussions expected on missile supply, frigates and co-production
2025-04-14 09:40:00 / BOTA
In a period of intense developments in the Eastern Mediterranean and advanced discussions on building a common European defense, the official visit of the French Minister of Defense, Sébastien Lecornu, to Athens comes as a clear signal for the consolidation of the strategic agreement between Greece and France in the field of defense.
The French minister was received by his Greek counterpart, Nikos Dendias, and is also expected to meet with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. The visit comes a few days after the presentation of the Long-Term Program of Defense Equipment of the Greek Armed Forces for the period 2025–2036, where one of the main priorities is the modernization of the naval fleet – a process in which France has a key role through the supply of three FDI frigates (Belharra).
As part of this visit, it is expected that the port of Piraeus, where the French frigate "ALSACE" is located, will be visited, as well as the Salamis shipyards, awaiting the arrival of the third Greek frigate Belharra, F-601 "Kimon".
Also on the negotiating table is the possibility of purchasing a fourth FDI frigate equipped with SCALP Naval strategic missiles, while the option of supplying 16 Exocet missiles is also being considered - in response to Turkey's reported interest in Meteor missiles.
Minister Dendias stressed the need for caution in managing the military budget, seeking support from partners such as France to achieve more favorable financial conditions. He also underlined the importance of involving local industry in defense programs, with the aim of at least 25% of projects being carried out by Greek companies, including the French proposal to build frigates and submarines at the Skaramanga shipyards.
This visit confirms the high level of strategic relations between the two countries and emphasizes France's role as a key ally in the security and stability of the region.
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