The Hellenic Navy has formally launched one of its most important modernization programs in recent decades, signing contracts worth approximately €260 million for the Mid-Life Upgrade (MLU) of its four Hydra-class (MEKO 200HN) frigates. The program will significantly enhance the operational effectiveness, survivability and combat capabilities of the vessels, ensuring they remain a key component of Greece’s naval force structure well into the 2040s.

The modernization effort combines advanced combat systems supplied by Thales with extensive participation from Greek industry, reflecting Athens’ broader objective of strengthening domestic defence capabilities while extending the service life of existing naval assets.

The four frigates – HS Hydra (F-452), HS Spetsai (F-453), HS Psara (F-454) and HS Salamis (F-455) – entered service during the late 1990s and have served as the backbone of the Hellenic Navy’s surface fleet for more than two decades. Built in Germany and Greece, the vessels were originally equipped with several Thales systems and remain among the Navy’s most capable multi-mission platforms.

The modernization program received a major boost on 8 April 2026 when the Ministry of National Defence approved two critical contracts under the broader upgrade initiative. The largest contract, valued at €248.7 million, was awarded to Thales Nederland B.V. for the supply and integration of advanced combat systems, sensors and command-and-control capabilities. A second contract worth €11.5 million was awarded to the Greek company SSMART S.A., which will serve as the systems integrator responsible for activating, connecting, configuring and certifying the upgraded combat systems aboard the vessels.

The program moved into its implementation phase on 29 May 2026 with the signing of Contract 001Β/26 between the General Directorate for Defence Investments and Armaments (GDDIA) and SSMART, marking another significant milestone in the modernization effort.

At the center of the upgrade is the installation of the latest version of the TACTICOS Combat Management System (CMS), one of the world’s most widely deployed naval command-and-control systems. Currently in service with more than 25 navies worldwide, TACTICOS provides an operator-focused interface that integrates sensor data, weapon systems and tactical information into a single operational picture, enhancing situational awareness and decision-making during complex naval operations.

The frigates will also receive the advanced NS100 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar. This modern software-defined radar offers medium-to-long-range surveillance capabilities, superior target tracking performance and enhanced support for weapon engagement. Utilizing dual-axis multi-beam technology, the NS100 significantly improves the vessel’s ability to detect and track both conventional and emerging threats in increasingly contested maritime environments.

Complementing the radar upgrade is the integration of the STIR 1.2 EO Mk2 fire-control system. This dual-frequency radar incorporates electro-optical sensors, laser systems and infrared capabilities, providing precise target tracking and engagement support. Together, the NS100 radar and STIR fire-control sensors will substantially enhance the frigates’ air defence, surface warfare and threat-detection capabilities.

According to Thales, the selected systems are already operational across multiple NATO navies, reducing technical risk while ensuring interoperability with allied fleets. The modernization will establish a new operational baseline for the Hellenic Navy and align the Hydra-class frigates with current and future NATO operational requirements.

A distinctive feature of the program is the extensive participation of Greek industry. Beyond supplying advanced technologies, Thales has committed to conducting support activities and services locally through its long-established presence in Greece. The company, which celebrated 50 years of operations in the country in 2025 through Thales Hellas, has maintained a longstanding relationship with the Hellenic Armed Forces across all military branches.

The role of SSMART is particularly significant. As the system integrator, the company will be responsible for ensuring that the newly installed combat systems function seamlessly together. This includes the activation, integration, testing, configuration and certification of all combat system components. The project represents one of the most important naval integration efforts undertaken by a Greek defence company in recent years.

Equally critical is the role of Skaramangas Shipyards, where the physical modernization work will take place. The shipyard will conduct dry-docking operations, removal of legacy equipment, installation of new foundations and support structures, modifications to masts and internal compartments, as well as upgrades to power distribution and data networks. In essence, Skaramangas will serve as the industrial center of gravity for the entire modernization effort.

The cooperation between Thales, SSMART and Skaramangas reflects a three-pillar approach: Thales provides the technological core, SSMART manages systems integration and Skaramangas delivers the shipyard infrastructure necessary for implementation. This structure ensures significant domestic industrial participation while supporting the transfer of expertise and technical know-how to Greece.

The modernization program is expected to extend the operational life of the four frigates by at least 15 years. Current planning foresees the first upgraded vessel being delivered by the end of 2028, with all four ships expected to complete modernization by 2030.

The timing of the program is particularly important as the Hellenic Navy continues a broader transformation effort that includes the introduction of new FDI HN frigates. In January 2026, the Navy received its first Belharra-class frigate, HS Kimon, equipped with advanced Thale’s radar and communications systems. Together with the MEKO modernization, these programs will provide Greece with a more capable, networked and technologically advanced surface fleet.

Commenting on the contract, Vincent Megaides, Country Director for Greece, Cyprus and Malta at Thales, stated that the company is honored to contribute to the operational effectiveness and readiness of the Hydra-class frigates. He emphasized that the modernization, centered around the latest TACTICOS Combat Management System, will serve as a reference point for future Hellenic Navy capabilities while ensuring sustained operational readiness through close cooperation with local partners.

As regional security challenges continue to evolve, the Hydra-class modernization program represents a strategic investment in maintaining Greece’s maritime deterrence and operational readiness. By combining advanced NATO-proven technologies with substantial domestic industrial participation, the project strengthens both the combat effectiveness of the Hellenic Navy and the long-term development of Greece’s defence industrial base.