Greece is deploying the frigates Kimon and Psara, along with four F-16 fighter jets, to Cyprus after a second drone attack in the region. The move is aimed at strengthening the island’s air defence and counter-drone shield, with particular emphasis on advanced missile systems and electronic warfare capabilities.
Frigate Kimon: Area air defence platform
The frigate Kimon is a frontline FDI HN type vessel, also known as the Belharra class, and represents the most modern air defence platform in the Hellenic Navy.
It is equipped with 32 vertical launch cells for Aster 30 surface-to-air missiles, providing long-range area air defence capability.
The vessel also features the Sea Fire AESA radar, capable of tracking multiple airborne targets simultaneously, and the SETIS combat management system. Its configuration allows it to operate as an air defence hub, offering protection not only to itself but across a broader operational radius.
Key systems include:
- Vertical launch system for Aster 30 long-range surface-to-air missiles
- Sea Fire active electronically scanned array radar
- SETIS combat management system
- Anti-air and anti-submarine weapons systems
- 76mm naval gun
The platform is designed to provide extended air defence coverage, directly linked to the reinforcement of air security in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Frigate Psara and the Kentavros electronic warfare system
The frigate Psara, a MEKO 200HN class vessel, is equipped with ESSM medium-range surface-to-air missiles, a Phalanx CIWS for close-in defence and integrated surveillance radar systems.
Of particular operational relevance is the Greek-developed Kentavros electronic warfare system, integrated into Hellenic Navy surface units.
Developed by the Hellenic Aerospace Industry, Kentavros is a soft-kill electronic countermeasure system designed to counter unmanned aerial vehicles. It detects and disrupts communication and guidance signals of hostile drones, neutralising them through electronic interference rather than kinetic firepower.
In an operational environment where drone attacks have become a defining feature of modern conflict, the presence of this system is considered significant.
Psara’s capabilities include:
- Kentavros electronic warfare system against UAV threats
- Detection, jamming and neutralisation of hostile drones through electronic means
- ESSM medium-range air defence missiles
- Phalanx close-in weapon system
The system has already undergone operational testing on Hellenic Navy surface units.
Role of the F-16 Viper aircraft
The deployed F-16 aircraft are Viper configuration jets, Block 72, the most advanced version in service with the Hellenic Air Force.
They are equipped with the AN/APG-83 AESA radar, offering significantly enhanced detection and tracking capabilities compared to earlier variants. The system allows simultaneous engagement of multiple airborne threats and improved situational awareness.
The aircraft are certified to carry AIM-120 AMRAAM medium-range air-to-air missiles and AIM-9 Sidewinder short-range missiles. They are capable of interception missions and Combat Air Patrol operations.
Their deployment adds a mobile and flexible layer to the air defence framework, operating in coordination with naval units to provide additional aerial coverage.
With information from parapolitika.gr