Fincantieri Backs Transfer of Italian FREMM Frigates to Greece

Naval defense logistics are shifting in the Eastern Mediterranean as Italy and Greece formalize a major fleet transfer. Fincantieri will provide comprehensive technical and operational support for the handover of two FREMM-class frigates from the Italian Navy to the Hellenic Navy, according to Container News. The formalizing Implementing Arrangement was signed in Rome following earlier bilateral agreements struck in September 2025.

How will Fincantieri support the FREMM frigate transfer?

Fincantieri will manage the technical transfer and long-term lifecycle maintenance for the Carlo Bergamini and Virginio Fasan to ensure continuous operational readiness for the Hellenic Navy. The Italian shipbuilder, which originally designed and constructed both vessels, will oversee fleet integration, initial refitting requirements, and sustained technical support. Greek industrial shipyards and defense contractors are slated to participate directly in scheduled maintenance activities and the integration of new tactical and combat systems aboard the warships.

This localized maintenance model ensures that regional ports and maritime engineering firms retain critical technical competencies. Fleet managers and defense logisticians recognize that securing long-term OEM backing is vital for mitigating drydock bottlenecks and unexpected equipment failures. By partnering with Fincantieri, the Hellenic Navy de-risks the integration of sophisticated propulsion, combat, and hull management systems into its existing fleet architecture.

• Fincantieri provides initial and long-term technical support for the two transferred frigates.
• The Hellenic Navy will absorb the Carlo Bergamini and Virginio Fasan into active service.
• Greek industrial yards will participate in upcoming maintenance and systems integration tasks.

What does this agreement mean for naval industrial cooperation?

The bilateral arrangement between Rome and Athens establishes a framework for broader defense technology sharing and joint maritime manufacturing initiatives between the two Mediterranean nations. Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and Managing Director of Fincantieri, emphasized that the vessel transfer creates valuable commercial and technological pathways for collaboration with the Greek industrial sector. Integrating the FREMM platforms into the Hellenic Navy serves as an operational bridge for cross-border defense manufacturing.

"The introduction of the FREMM frigates into the Hellenic Navy represents a first step towards broader integration of expertise, technologies and industrial synergies."

— Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and Managing Director, Fincantieri

For commercial shipyards and naval suppliers across Southern Europe, this accord signals a growing preference for localized lifecycle partnerships over short-term procurement contracts. As navies look to modernize amidst tightening fiscal constraints and complex supply chains, structured OEM support packages are becoming the benchmark for intergovernmental defense transfers.

What to watch next

Maritime stakeholders and defense observers should monitor three specific milestones as the transfer progresses through the coming months:

• The official drydock schedules for the Carlo Bergamini and Virginio Fasan upon entering Hellenic Navy operational command.
• Announcements regarding specific Greek maritime contractors selected for joint maintenance and combat system integration.
• Further bilateral maritime agreements stemming from the September 2025 Memorandum of Cooperation and Declaration of Intent.

Frequently asked

Which frigates are being transferred from Italy to Greece?

The Italian Navy vessels Carlo Bergamini and Virginio Fasan are being transferred to the Hellenic Navy with support from shipbuilder Fincantieri.

What role does Fincantieri play in the frigate transfer?

Fincantieri provides initial and long-term lifecycle support, managing technical readiness, maintenance activities, and the integration of new systems for the vessels.

Will Greek industry be involved in maintaining the ships?

Yes, Greek industrial partners and shipyards will participate directly in maintenance operations and the integration of new tactical systems aboard the frigates.