Thales contracted to upgrade Greek Hydra frigates’ mission systems

The Greek General Directorate for Defence Investments and Armaments (GDDIA) has entered into a contract with Thales to modernise the mission systems of the Hellenic Navy’s Hydra-class frigates.  

Announced on 25 May, the agreement marks a major mid-life upgrade for the fleet, with Thales set to work in close partnership with Greek industry. 

Under the contract, Thales will supply the Tacticos Combat Management System, NS100 radar, and STIR Fire Control sensors for the four Hydra frigates.  

The company stated that these systems are in operation with several Nato fleets and are widely regarded for their effectiveness in maritime defence roles. 

The Hydra-class frigates, utilising the MEKO 200 design, were constructed in Germany and Greece and have incorporated Thales technology since entering service in the late 1990s.  

As part of the modernisation, Thales is responsible for not only the installation of the new mission system components, but also for carrying out ongoing support and services in Greece. 

The company emphasised that localisation and close industry cooperation remain central to the programme’s objectives. 

Thales will oversee all aspects of the mid-life upgrade locally, with work to be conducted in collaboration with Greek partners and suppliers.  

Upon completion, the company’s local service hub will continue to support the Hellenic Navy and maintain the vessels’ operational capabilities. 

The new Tacticos Combat Management System will serve as the command centre for the mission systems on board the frigates.  

According to Thales, the latest release of Tacticos provides an operator-focused interface and a wide range of capabilities, with upgrades currently used by more than 25 navies worldwide. 

The technical upgrade also includes the integration of the NS100 radar, described as a software-defined active electronically scanned array (AESA) system.  

This radar is designed to offer medium- to long-range situational awareness and enhanced support for weapons systems.  

In addition, the STIR 1.2 EO MK2, a dual-frequency sensor with an electro-optical suite, is to be installed to provide enhanced fire control and situational awareness. The suite includes laser and infra-red capabilities. 

Thales Greece, Cyprus & Malta country director Vincent Megaides said: “We are proud to have been selected for this Mid Life Upgrade, which will integrate Thales’ advanced technology into the Hydra frigate class mission system, thereby enhancing the capabilities of the Hellenic Navy.  

“This new operational baseline built around the latest version of Tacticos Combat Management System will be a reference for the future capabilities of the Hellenic Navy. In close collaboration with local industry and partners, we are committed to ensure sustained operational readiness.” 

In 2024, Thales also teamed up with ThyssenKrupp Marine systems for the comprehensive modernisation and mid-life upgrade of four MEKO 200 Hydra-class frigates from the Greece’s Hellenic Navy.