The deployment of frigates “Kimon” and “Psara”, along with a pair of F-16 jets, to Cyprus following the second drone attack sends a clear operational message. The objective is to substantially strengthen the island’s anti-aircraft and anti-drone defenses during a period when unmanned threats are gaining increasing importance. The presence of “Psara” is considered crucial, as it carries the Greek-developed “Centaur” electronic warfare system for countering UAVs, combined with “Kimon’s” powerful area air defense capabilities and F-16 air support.
Characteristics of frigate “Kimon”
The frigate “Kimon”, a frontline FDI HN (Belharra) type unit of the Hellenic Navy, represents the most advanced anti-aircraft platform in the Greek fleet. It features 32 vertical launch cells for Aster 30 missiles, which provide long-range area air defense capability.
It is equipped with AESA technology Sea Fire radar, capable of simultaneously tracking multiple aerial targets, as well as an advanced combat system. This particular configuration allows “Kimon” to operate as an anti-aircraft coverage hub over a wider radius, not only for the ship itself but for the entire operational area.
Detailed capabilities include:
– Vertical launchers for Aster 30 anti-aircraft missiles, providing long-range area air defense capability.
– AESA Sea Fire radar with active electronic scanning technology.
– SETIS combat system.
– Anti-aircraft and anti-submarine weapons, as well as a 76mm gun.
This particular platform has been designed to provide air defense coverage over a wider radius, directly connecting to the mission of reinforcing air defense in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Frigate “Psara” and the “Centaur” electronic warfare system
The frigate “Psara” (MEKO 200HN class) features ESSM missiles for medium-range anti-aircraft defense, Phalanx CIWS system for close protection, and integrated surveillance radars. Of particular significance, however, is the presence of the Greek-developed “Centaur” electronic warfare system, which has been integrated into Hellenic Navy units.
“Centaur”, developed by Hellenic Aerospace Industry, is a soft-kill jamming system designed to counter unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). It detects and jams drone communication and guidance signals, disrupting their operation without using kinetic weapons.
In an environment where attacks using unmanned systems are a key characteristic of modern conflicts, the presence of this particular system gains increased operational significance.
Frigate capabilities include:
– “Centaur” is an electronic warfare system against unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
– Detects, jams and neutralizes hostile drones through electronic interference.
– Already operationally tested on Hellenic Navy surface units.
The presence of this particular system gains increased importance in light of drone attacks, as it offers immediate capability to counter low-cost, low-signature threats that are a basic characteristic of modern conflicts.
The role of F-16 Viper aircraft
The pair of F-16s being deployed are Viper configuration (Block 72), the most advanced version of the type in the Hellenic Air Force. The F-16 Vipers feature AN/APG-83 AESA radar, which offers significantly enhanced target detection and tracking capabilities compared to earlier versions. The system allows simultaneous engagement of multiple aerial threats and improved situational awareness.
They are certified for AIM-120 AMRAAM medium-range and AIM-9 Sidewinder short-range air-to-air missiles, while capable of executing interception missions and Combat Air Patrol. Their presence adds a mobile and flexible dimension to air defense, operating complementarily with naval units and creating an additional layer of aerial coverage.
