The Hellenic Navy has acquired shipborne Camcopter S-100 unmanned air systems from Schiebel to equip its three newly delivered French-built FDI frigates. Although financial and contractual specifics remain undisclosed, the first installation is planned for spring aboard HS Kimon (F601). The frigate, which reached Greece in January, will undergo phased upgrades to reach the Standard 2++ configuration by 2029.
Beyond the ship-based platforms, one additional Camcopter S-100 will be stationed ashore to support training and improve operator readiness. Initial crew training for Greek personnel is expected to conclude in spring 2026.
The remaining S-100 systems will be deployed aboard HS Nearchos and HS Formion, scheduled for delivery in late 2026 and early 2027.
The Camcopter S-100 is a vertical takeoff and landing unmanned aircraft capable of operating day or night and in challenging weather conditions. It offers a data-link range of up to 200 kilometers over land and sea and can fly autonomously via GPS-programmed routes or be manually controlled through a pilot unit.
Fitted with a Wescam MX-10 electro-optical/infrared turret and an Overwatch Imaging PT-8 Oceanwatch sensor, the S-100 will expand the frigates’ capabilities in maritime security, search and rescue, exclusive economic zone patrol, environmental monitoring, and anti-submarine warfare missions.
