Naval Group confirmed that the Hellenic Navy representatives are present to observe and oversee the sea trials. The initial phase focuses on testing the platform systems, including propulsion and navigation, while a second round in the coming weeks will assess combat systems and the ship’s endurance at sea.
[#Teasing] ⚓📽️ FDI Kimon stealing the show. Sorry @Festival_Cannes pic.twitter.com/NcHgFrURFQ
— Naval Group (@navalgroup) May 23, 2025
“This marks a key milestone for the FDI programme,” Naval Group stated, highlighting the 2025 schedule which includes the delivery of HS Kimon and the planned launch of the third frigate, HS Formion. By 2026, the Hellenic Navy will operate three state-of-the-art, multi-mission FDI frigates.
FDI frigates are designed for first-rank navies and are equipped to respond to both current and emerging threats. As a versatile and resilient high-seas platform, HS Kimon enhances Greece’s naval capabilities in the Eastern Mediterranean across anti-air, anti-submarine, anti-ship, and special operations domains.
The frigate incorporates cutting-edge technologies from Thales in radar, sonar, and electronic warfare, and features a fully digital onboard architecture. This digital infrastructure allows for continuous upgrades, supporting adaptation to evolving threats without the need for major overhauls.
FDI ships are also cyber-secure by design, utilising dual redundant data centres to virtualise most onboard systems. A notable innovation is the integration of a dedicated asymmetric threat gateway, designed to coordinate defence against small, fast-moving air and surface targets.
Armed with MBDA’s Aster anti-air and Exocet MM40 B3c anti-surface missiles, the RAM system, MU90 torpedoes, and a 76mm gun, HS Kimon is built for high-intensity combat. She also features aviation facilities for a 10-tonne class helicopter and vertical take-off and landing UAVs.
With a displacement of 4,500 tons, a length of approximately 122 metres, a beam of 18 metres, and a top speed of 27 knots, the HS Kimon represents the forefront of European naval engineering. Naval Group’s collaboration with partners such as Thales and MBDA has ensured the frigate meets the highest standards of operational readiness.
