The newly acquired FDI frigate 'Kimón' is undergoing operational evaluation under the Greek Navy, with citizens eager for its public showcase during the 78th anniversary of the Dodecanese's integration into Greece.
The Greek Navy has officially taken over the frigate FDI 'Kimón' (Belharra), marking a significant addition to its fleet. After a month of operational control, the ship is currently undergoing an evaluation process expected to last approximately six months. This new advancement in naval technology has stirred excitement among Greek citizens and political figures alike. Their eagerness reflects not only the modernization of Greece's naval capabilities but also national pride in showcasing such assets.
Recently, the Regional Governor of the South Aegean, Mr. Georgios Hatzimarkos, reached out formally to the Minister of National Defense, Mr. Nikolaos Dendias, and the Chief of the Hellenic National Defense General Staff, General Dimitrios Houfis, requesting the frigate's presence in Rhodes. This request is tied closely to the upcoming celebrations of the 78th Anniversary of the Dodecanese's integration into Greece on March 6 and 7, 2026. Such involvement would symbolize the naval strength that the frigate represents and its connection to significant historical events in the region.
The General Staff of the Navy has confirmed the receipt of this request, but it remains under consideration. The implications of this request are manifold, ranging from bolstering morale among the populace to enhancing Greece's military presence in the strategically vital Aegean Sea. The frigate is not only a piece of military hardware but also a point of national pride and a display of modern naval warfare capabilities, which could serve as a deterrent in the increasingly complex geopolitical dynamics of the Eastern Mediterranean.
