Greece Strengthens Its Fleet: Fourth Belharra Frigate Approved

The Greek Parliament has given the green light for the acquisition of a fourth Belharra frigate, with the Ministry of National Defense bill approved by a broad majority of 243 votes. Parties supporting the bill included New Democracy, PASOK, SYRIZA, Greek Solution, and NIKI, while the Communist Party, New Left, and Free Way voted against it. Notably, SYRIZA MP Elena Akrita diverged from her party, casting a negative vote. The nominal vote was jointly requested by New Left and Free Way.

The new Belharra frigate is expected to significantly enhance the Hellenic Navy’s capabilities, while the program also includes upgrades to the three existing frigates. Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias emphasized that “this ship is by far the most modern frigate in the world today. No other navy possesses anything comparable,” underlining the strategic importance of this defense investment.

At the same time, geopolitical tensions in the Aegean remain high. Turkey issued a new NAVTEX for the activities of the research vessel “Piri Reis” west of Chios and Lesbos from October 4 to 14. Greece responded immediately with an anti-NAVTEX issued by the Limnos station of the Hellenic Navy Hydrographic Service, noting that “the Turkish NAVTEX is illegal, as it attempts to reserve areas within Greek continental shelf waters.” The Limnos station is the sole authority for issuing NAVTEX in the area, reinforcing Athens’ position against Turkish provocations.

The simultaneous fleet upgrade and strict response to illegal claims demonstrate that Greece is decisively enhancing its defense capabilities, strengthening its position in the Aegean, and sending a clear deterrent signal to Turkey. The country’s strategic choices are closely linked to safeguarding national sovereignty and maintaining the balance of power in the region.

The approval of the Belharra frigate, combined with deterrent measures in the Aegean, clearly signals that Greece is investing in high-tech defense assets, improving readiness, and ensuring predictability in a period of geopolitical uncertainty.

Source: pagenews.gr