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The Greek Parliament voted overwhelmingly on Friday to authorize the acquisition of a fourth Belharra-class frigate from France, expanding the country's naval modernization program amid regional security concerns.
The 300-seat parliament approved the purchase by a margin of 248 votes, with broad cross-party support extending beyond the ruling New Democracy party. The Panhellenic Socialist Movement (PASOK), Coalition of the Radical Left (SYRIZA), Greek Solution, and Victory parties all backed the measure.
Only the Communist Party of Greece (KKE), New Left, and Course of Freedom parties opposed the acquisition.
The vote comes as an expansion of Greece's existing naval procurement agreement with France. In March 2022, Greece signed a deal to purchase three Belharra-class frigates, with the first two vessels scheduled for delivery in 2025 and the third in 2026.
Defense Minister Nikos Dendias first proposed the fourth frigate purchase to the National Security Council in April. The council approved the request in September, paving the way for Friday's parliamentary vote.
The Belharra-class frigates are multi-mission naval vessels designed for anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine warfare. France's Naval Group manufactures the ships, which feature advanced radar systems and can carry helicopters.
Greece's naval expansion comes as the Eastern Mediterranean region faces heightened tensions over territorial disputes and energy resources. The country has been modernizing its military capabilities in recent years, including agreements for French Rafale fighter jets and American F-35 aircraft.
The parliamentary approval allows the government to proceed with contract negotiations for the additional warship, though final terms and delivery schedules have not been disclosed.
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