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Greece Deploys Kimon Frigate to Shield Cyprus From Iranian Shahed Drone Threat
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Greece is sending two frigates and F-16 fighter jets to defend Cyprus following a series of Iranian attacks. The deployment includes the HN Kimon (F-601).
This vessel is currently the newest and most capable frigate in the Greek fleet and is equipped with long-range air defense systems, according to Naval News on March 3.
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The mission will also involve a Hydra/MEKO 200HN class frigate and two F-16 fighter jets. This operation marks the first combat mission for the HN Kimon. It is the first of four FDI HN frigates built by the Naval Group to enter active service.
The Greek government decided to move these naval and air assets after targeted Iranian strikes against Cyprus. These attacks focused on Paphos Airport and the Akrotiri airbase.
Akrotiri is a British Sovereign Base Area and is considered North Atlantic Treaty Organization territory because the United Kingdom is a member of the Alliance.
The strikes against these locations involved both missiles and Shahed-type drones. The deployment of the FDI HN frigates provides Greece with advanced radar and sonar systems, as well as long-range anti-aircraft missiles.
The HN Kimon officially joined the Greek Navy in late December 2025. Greece originally ordered this new type of frigate in 2022. The government signed the contract with Naval Group for the construction of the ships and with MBDA for the electronic systems and weaponry.
The FDI HN frigate has a displacement of 4,460 tons and a length of 122 meters. It has a width of 17.7 meters and can reach a maximum speed of 27 knots. The vessel is operated by a crew of 110 people.
Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the recent military operations conducted by the United States and Israel against the Iranian regime.
While welcoming the actions, the President emphasized that the opportunity for transformation within Iran must be managed carefully. It is “important that this chance for change for Iran is used correctly,” he noted on March 1.
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