Naval Group & HAI Partner to Elevate FDI Frigate C-UAS Defense Against Drone Threats
PIRAEUS, GREECE – In a significant move set to bolster naval defenses across the Aegean and beyond, Naval Group and Hellenic Aerospace Industry (HAI) have formalized a strategic partnership. Announced at the prestigious DEFEA 2025 exhibition, a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) paves the way for the integration of HAI’s combat-proven CENTAUR Counter-Unmanned Aircraft System (C-UAS) into the Hellenic Navy’s next-generation Kimon-class (FDI HN) frigates. This collaboration directly addresses the escalating threat of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) in modern maritime warfare, promising a robust, fully integrated defense solution.
Strategic Integration: Protecting FDI Frigates and Beyond
The core of this agreement focuses on equipping the advanced FDI frigates with state-of-the-art C-UAS capabilities. The Kimon-class, representing the Hellenic Navy’s future surface combatants, will be the initial beneficiary, gaining a critical edge against a diverse spectrum of aerial threats, from reconnaissance drones to more aggressive attack UAVs. Crucially, the MoU outlines ambitions to extend this integration to other surface vessels, including the French Navy’s own FDI frigates. This cross-naval application underscores the system’s versatility and the shared commitment to enhancing European maritime security through cooperative defense technology development.
CENTAUR: A Proven Guardian in Action
At the heart of this enhanced capability is the CENTAUR C-UAS system. Already combat-proven, CENTAUR has demonstrated its effectiveness in real-world scenarios, notably during its successful deployment in the Red Sea. Its prototype has been actively serving aboard the Hellenic Navy’s Hydra-class (MEKO 200HN) frigates, where it has consistently shown strong performance against contemporary UAV threats. HAI officials at DEFEA 2025 provided insights into the finalized, industrialized version of CENTAUR, highlighting its comprehensive approach from early detection to decisive interception. This mature and battle-tested system provides a vital layer of protection for naval assets operating in increasingly complex threat environments.
Introducing IPERION: The Future of Lightweight C-UAS?
Adding another layer to HAI’s innovation showcase, the company also unveiled IPERION, a new lightweight and compact C-UAS system. Presented to the public for the very first time, IPERION signifies HAI’s continuous commitment to advancing counter-drone technology. While details on its immediate application within the FDI program were not specified, IPERION’s debut suggests potential for future deployments across a wider array of smaller vessels or even land-based units, offering flexible and scalable solutions to the persistent challenge of unmanned threats.
Enhancing Naval Resilience Against Evolving Threats
The signing of this MoU between Naval Group and HAI marks a pivotal moment for both the Hellenic and French Navies. It represents a proactive and collaborative effort to integrate cutting-edge counter-drone technology into their frontline assets. As the proliferation of advanced UAVs continues to reshape naval warfare doctrines, such partnerships are indispensable for maintaining operational superiority and ensuring the safety of naval personnel and critical infrastructure. This initiative not only strengthens bilateral defense ties but also positions European naval forces at the forefront of maritime defense innovation.
