The Hydra-class frigates were built in Germany and Greece and have been operational since the late 1990s. They already carry Thales systems, and the company will perform the Mid Life Upgrade and subsequent support and services locally.
Thales said localisation has been a key driver of the programme. After the upgrade is completed, the company’s local service hub will continue working with Greek industry to help the Hellenic Navy maintain operational readiness.
The modernisation will include the integration of Thales systems such as the Tacticos Combat Management System, the NS100 radar and STIR fire control sensors. Thales said the selected sensors and combat management system are proven and in service with several NATO fleets.
The software-defined NS100 radar uses active electronically scanned array technology with dual-axis multi-beam capability. Thales said it will provide medium- to long-range situational awareness and weapon support.
The STIR 1.2 EO Mk2 is a dual-frequency radar with an integrated electro-optical suite. It includes laser and infrared solutions intended to support situational awareness and high-precision fire control.
Tacticos will serve as the central command, control and decision-support element of the Hydra frigates’ mission system. Thales said the latest release provides an operator-focused human-machine interface and a broad set of proven capabilities, with different versions operated by more than 25 navies.
Thales said the contract reflects its longstanding relationship with the Hellenic Armed Forces across the army, navy and air force. The company marked the 50th anniversary of its local presence through Thales Hellas last year.
“Thales is honored to contribute to the operational effectiveness and readiness of the Hellenic Navy’s Hydra frigates,” said Vincent Megaides, Country Director for Greece, Cyprus & Malta, Thales.
“Our longstanding partnership with the Hellenic armed forces reflects a strong foundation of mutual trust and commitment. We are proud to have been selected for this Mid Life Upgrade, which will integrate Thales’ advanced technology into the Hydra frigate class mission system, thereby enhancing the capabilities of the Hellenic Navy,” Megaides said.
“This new operational baseline built around the latest version of Tacticos Combat Management System will be a reference for the future capabilities of the Hellenic Navy. In close collaboration with local industry and partners, we are committed to ensure sustained operational readiness,” Megaides added.
Thales said it is committed to a swift launch of the project execution phase. The company said it will begin work as soon as possible with local partners to deliver the upgraded capabilities.
