KYSIA: Patriot Return from Karpathos and Decisions on Bergamini and MEKO Frigates
Greece’s National Security Council orders withdrawal of Patriot batteries from Karpathos and Northern Greece, advances naval upgrades, and moves ahead on defense projects amid regional strategic shifts.
The Governmental National Security Council decided today to return the Patriot missile batteries that had been deployed to Karpathos and Northern Greece.
According to the decisions made by its members under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, the reasons that necessitated their deployment there have ceased to exist. One of the six battalions available to the Hellenic Air Force General Staff will be moved back to its base from Karpathos, while a similar move will take place with the battery that had been sent to Northern Greece to cover Bulgaria against possible ballistic threats.
At the same time, the National Defence Council (KYSEA) proceeded with important decisions regarding the modernization of the Hellenic Navy. The completion of negotiations with Italy for the acquisition of two plus two Bergamini-class frigates was approved, with the first two used vessels expected around 2028. These ships are based on joint Italian and French designs, known as FREMM on the French side.
Following a proposal by Minister of National Defence Nikos Dendias, the green light was also given for the modernization of the four German MEKO-class frigates – Hydra, Spetsai, Psara, and Salamis. The upgrade of these ships, which have been in service since 1992 and onwards, is expected to possibly begin in 2027 and be completed by 2030.
“Achilles’ Shield” to be discussed in a future session
The members of KYSEA also extensively discussed the major procurement program for new anti-aircraft and anti-ballistic systems, known as “Achilles’ Shield.” Although negotiations have been ongoing for about three years, final decisions will be made later. Nikos Dendias requested that Greek companies secure a participation rate of 25% of the estimated budget, which is close to three billion euros.
Additionally, the transfer of 13 M113 armored personnel carriers to Lebanon was approved to reinforce the official Lebanese army. During the session, Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis provided an update on developments in the Eastern Mediterranean, Iran, and the Middle East, while other armament issues were approved along with the initiation of the implementation of the National Strategy for Unmanned Vehicles 2026-2030.
