Greece and Italy signed a naval cooperation agreement in the Italian city of La Spezia, which included a letter of intent to acquire two Italian “FREMM” frigates, with an option for Greece to obtain two additional ships (2+2).

The Greek newspaper “Kathimerini” reported that the agreement was signed in the presence of Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias and his Italian counterpart Guido Crosetto.

On the sidelines of the visit, the Greek and Italian defense ministers met aboard an Italian Navy frigate. Dendias told Greek public television: “We had a very important discussion, which concluded with the signing of two protocols. One opens the door for acquiring two FREMM frigates with the option to purchase two more. These ships are about a decade old but have excellent capabilities and are in very good operational condition.” The cost of the deal has not yet been disclosed.

This move comes amid escalating strategic competition in the Eastern Mediterranean, especially between Greece and Turkey, due to maritime disputes and energy issues. The FREMM frigates are among the advanced naval assets, featuring high capabilities in air defense, anti-submarine warfare, and multi-mission operations.

Observers believe that strengthening the Greek fleet with these modern ships, alongside partnerships with France and Italy, reflects a broader European trend to support Mediterranean security and enhance the autonomy of European defense capabilities in facing regional challenges.