Hydra class Frigate (1989)

Hydra (F 452), Meko 200 Mk.3
The Hydra class are four frigates in service with the Hellenic Navy, designed in Germany as part of the MEKO 200 series, authorised in 1988 and partially paid for with FMS aid with at first six vessels planned. The first was built in Germany, commissioned in 1992 and the remainder in Greece at Hellenic shipyards, Skaramanga, under Blohm & Voss supervision with prefabriucated modules. Greek built warships were financially delayed with the last commissioned in 1998 and the last two cancelled. Instead, were purchased eight second-hand Kortenaer-class frigates from the Netherlands, allowing to replace the numerous legacy MDAP US FRAM destroyers still in the inventory.
Since then, the Hydra class had been thoroughly modernized in 2009 and again in 2019. They are expected to stay active until 2030.

Development

Replacing legacy MDAP Destroyers

HS Kanaris (D-212), planned for replacement by the new MEKO 200 and Charles Adams class.
The state of the Hellenic Navy in 1987 when the replacement program was planned, was dire. After the removal of the six Sfendoni class Destroyers (1959-81), the seven Kanaris class Destroyers (FRAM II Gearing) were planned for replacement already by four Charles F. Adams class ships (Kimon class) and they arrived in 1991. Several Knox class frigates also arrived but given their general state they were decommissioned not long after. All these ships were going back to the 1950-60s at best. The Gearings had been laid down in WW2 and their powerplant was starting to show. So the German proposal seemed at the time the most promising in terms of automation, modernity and modularity for a long service.

About MEKO

HS Psara (F-454)
One of the most important export naval product of cold war West Germany, after its submarines, were its MEKO type frigates. MEKO is not an the acronym but the combination for “Mehrzweck-Kombination” (“multi-purpose-combination”). It was developed by the venerable Blohm+Voss shipyard, struggling after the 1973 oil crisis, to turn to export through a family of ships aimed at modularity of armament, electronics and other equipment, easing of maintenance and reducing costs.
The MEKO family included frigates, corvettes and OPVs. This stated in the late 1970s with Nigeria’s MEKO 360 H1. Each time, the ship is proposed in an almost plug and play fashion, with the customer pointing out each time his desired armament and the sensors suite, if linked, is proposed as well.
The consortium behind later evolved to include Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems and Embraer Defense & Security and Atech (subsidiary of Embraer Group) while the ships are built by Blohm & Voss. Construction is also delegated to customer’s shipyard as much as possible to lower final costs compared to Germany and procured activity and experience.

The MEKO 200 family itself comprised the 200TNI, PN, TN IIa classes for Turkey (The Yavuz class was built 1987-89, motivating further the Hellenic Navy to compete), the MEKO 200HN for Greece (Hydra class), the MEKO 200 ANZAC, TN-IIB (Turkey), A-200 SAN (South Africa), A-200AN (Algeria), and the current Egyptian A-200EN. Thus modular construction was so popular it drove the German government to choose such design for the Corvette 130 (K130) Braunschweig class, Frigate 123 (F123) Brandenburg class, Frigate 124 (F124) Sachsen class and current Frigate 125 (F125) Baden-Württemberg reaching 7200t.

Design of the class

Hull and general design

These MEKO 200HN were tailored for the Hellenic Navy (“HN”), but The design followed the Portuguese ‘Vasco da Gama’ class, all steel with fin stabilisers and variable pitch propellers. They displaced 3,360 tons standard, 4,000 tons full load, for an overall length of 117.5 m (385 ft 6 in), for a beam of 14.8 m (48 ft 7 in), and draugth of 6 m (19 ft 8 in). Their crew totalled 173 with 22 officers and 151 enlisted men. These shups are rather unique and all share family traits. They had roomy interiors and “full” superstructure forms.

The clipper bow ends in a bulwark to stay wet, max width is reach rapidly to keep a maximal internal volume almost down to the stern which is transom. They had most of the structures concentrated amidships with a three-faceted enclosed bridge and wings (no open bridge), a two-step structure supporting a FC radar and derrick mast, free space for the SSM canisters, and rear stepped mast block supported rear radars and FCR.

Then followed the signature Blohm + Voss split funnel exhausting outwards through IR filtering assemblies, and then the long and roomy hangar for two helicopters, with an equally generous helideck satting on top of the lower aft deck with a VDS apparatus. The structure was already sloped for radar deflection, with an important “cut” amidship on two levels however for the torpedo tubes, utility launches, decoy launchers, light guns, salvage rafts and other items.
The hull had short classic counter-keels but active hydraulically powered stability planes behind. They worked contrary to the roll to help stabilize the ship, especially in heavy weather for helideck operations.

Powerplant

The two shaft CODOG were a radical change for what were the power unit specialists in Greece were accustomed for. The fleet was equipped indeed with classic steam engines and turbines. For the first time a CODOG (Combined Diesel or Gas) was installed and required training. On on hand they had two General Electric LM2500 gas turbines (60,650 shp total)(45,231 kW) for top speed at a generous 31 knots (57 km/h; 36 mph), and two MTU 20V956 diesel engines (10,420 shp total)(7,490 kW) for cruising at still 21 knots (39 km/h; 24 mph) on diesel only in economical mode. Range was 4,100 nmi (7,600 km; 4,700 mi) at 18 knots (33 km/h; 21 mph) or at 16 knots (30 km/h) depending on publications. These were solid figures to cross the Mediterranean and operate to the red sea if needed.

Armament

Mk 45 Mod 2A 5-inches/54 gun

Classic US pattern Mk.45 Mod.2 (5″/54 – 127mm) gun. Designed from 1968, introduced in 1971. Fully automated weapon system, small, lighter and rapid fire more accurately.
Model: Mk 45 Mod 2A: 20 rds/min to 24 km (13 n miles) anti-surface; 14 km (7.7 n miles) anti-aircraft; weight of shell 32 kg. 2 GD/GE Vulcan Phalanx 20 mm Mk 15 Mod 12; 6 barrels per mounting; 3,000 rds/min combined to 1.5 km.

Mk15 Phalanx 20 mm CIWS

There two of them, one located in front of the bridge on “B” position, the other wa smounted on the frame structure at the end of the hangar, covering all angles.

Harpoon missile launchers

Two Mark 141 quad tubes canisters were installed behind the formast and aft mainmast, angled up port and starboard.
Block 1C RGM-84 Harpoon SSM. Active radar homing to 130 km (70 n miles) at 0.9 Mach; warhead 227 kg.

Mk 48 Mod 2 VLS

This Mk.48 Mod.2 Vertical Launching System / VLS (16 cells) was installed right aft of the funnels, and sandwiched before the hangar.
They could fire either sixteen RIM-7 Sea Sparrow SAM or thirty-two RIM-162 Evolved Sea Sparrow Missiles (ESSM).

RIM-7 Sea Sparrow:

Semi-active radar homing to 14.6 km (8 nautical miles) at 2.5 Mach, warhead 39 kg.
Missile weight 510 lb (230 kg), 12 ft (3.7 m) long by 8 in (20 cm) diameter, 3 ft 4 in (1.02 m) wingspan.
Carries an annular blast fragmentation warhead, 90 lb (41 kg) with Proximity fuzed and expanding rod (27 ft (8.2 m) kill radius)
Engine: Hercules MK-58 solid-propellant rocket motor for 10 nmi (19 km) range at 4,256 km/h (2,645 mph)
Guidance: Semi-active radar homing

RIM-162 ESSM:

Mass: 620 lb (280 kg), Length: 12 ft (3.66 m), Diameter: 10 in (254 mm)
Warhead: 86 lb (39 kg) blast-fragmentation, proximity fuze
Engine: Mk 134 Mod 0 solid fuel rocket for 27 nmi+ (50 km+) at Mach 4+
Guidance: Mid-course update datalink, Terminal semi-active radar homing.

Mk32 Torpedo Tubes

Also US pattern were two triple Mk32 Mod 5 torpedo tubes, triple 324mm for Mk46 torpedoes. They were installed amidships.
Mass: 508 lb (230 kg), Length 8 ft 6 in (2.59 m), Diameter 12.75 in (323.8 mm)
Warhead: 96.8 lb (43.9 kg) PBXN-103 high explosive (bulk charge)
Engine: Two-speed, reciprocating external combustion Otto fuel II
Range/Speed: 12,000 yd (11,000 m) under 1,200 ft (370 m) at 40 knots+ (74 km/h; 46 mph)
Guidance: Active or passive/active acoustic homing

Sensors

Signaal MW08

Air search, Surveillance, Track and Fire Control Radar

Signaal DA08

Air surface radar. The DA-08 Surface-Air Surveillance Radar is IFF fitted.

Two Signaal STIR

Fire control CW radars installed fore and aft on the lower mast steps, work in I/J/K-band.

Racal Decca 2690 BT

Navigation radar. ➚ Data

Raytheon SQS-56/DE 1160

SQS-56: Hull-mounted active/passive submarine detection sonar with limited capabilities (OH perry).
DE 1160: VDS sonar. 1980s tech, Range Max: 14.8 km.

Mk XII Mod 4

IFF Vesta Helo transponder with datalink for OTHT. ➚ Data

Two Signaal Mk 73 Mod 1

Radar for the new ESSM missile, 2008.

One Signaal STACOS Mod 2

Main Combat Data System, AEGIS based (2024 upgrade).

SAR-8

IR searcher,
Also SWG 1 A(V) Harpoon LCS.

Communication:

CIS Capabilities, HF – VHF – UHF Conventional Comms with MHS, SatCom, Data LINK-11, NSWAN

Passive & Active Protection

The MEKO 200HN has high-level specifications for shock resistance, stiffness requirements for fire control and radar systems, blast and gas pressure resistance. The hull is constructed of high tensile steel with a yield strength of S355 N/mm² or structural steel grades. It is also divided into twelve self-sufficient watertight sections working almost independently of each other and equally independent data transfer to Nautos (Naval Automation System).

Argo AR 700

ESM system (Jammer), No data.

Telegon 10

ESM system interceptor (COMINT) no data.

Argo APECS II

ESM-ECM system. ➚ Full data

4x SCLAR

SRBOC Mk36 Decoy Launchers:

SLQ-25 Nixie

Torpedo decoy.

Air Group

Aviation facilities comprised a hangar for a Sikorsky S-70B-6 Aegean Hawk helicopter, from 1995 onwards. They are derivatives of the standard U.S. Navy SH-70B Seahawk, with modifications for fairer weather (some low visibility systems removed, etc). These ships carries two of them side by side in the roomy hangar, with spares suspended below the ceiling and with a gantry to lift up and depose the engine for repair or maintenance. This ensures one is serviced while the other is in patrol at all time.

⚙ specifications
Displacement	3,360 tons standard, 4,000 tons full load
Dimensions	117.5 x 14.8 x 6m (385 ft 6 in x 48 ft 7 in x 19 ft 8 in)
Propulsion	2 shaft CODOG cpp, 2 GE GT, 2 MTU diesels
Speed	31 knots (gas turbine), 21 knots (diesel)
Range	4,100 nmi (7,600 km; 4,700 mi) at 18 knots (33 km/h; 21 mph)
Armament	Mk 45 5″ gun, 2x Phalanx CIWS, 2×4 Harpoon, Mk 48 VLS RIM-162, 2 Mk32 324mm TTs
Sensors	Signaal MW08 ASR, DA08 ASR, 2 STIR FCR, Decca 2690 BT nav, Hull+ VDS, Nixie, IFF, Mk 73, STACOS CDS SAR-8 IR
Active Protection	Argo AR 700 ESM, Telegon 10 ESM, Argo APECS II ECM, 4 SCLAR decoy
Air Group	Sikorsky S-70B-6 Aegean Hawk
Crew	173: 22 officers, 151 enlisted

Upgrade

In 2007, there was a first wave of upgrades, since the design went back to 1988. First off, they had a STIR fire control system installed to allow firing the RIM-162 ESSM SAM. Salamis was the first to be upgraded and fires its ESSM by August 2008. The other three were upgraded the same in 2008.
On April 25, 2018 was announced a second, most torough modernization and life by MoD Panos Kammenos, announcing it in progress. By May 2019, the Joint Chiefs of General Staff Council precised the program was finalized. It was funded by the Greek Parliament April 2023 and was recenty completed.
In January 2024 thyssenkrupp Marine Systems and Thales announced they Cooperate on the Frigate MEKO 200HN Modernization Program. Signed by both partners on December 12, 2023 with thyssenkrupp Marine Systems subcontracting the modifications to a local Greek shipyard and concentrating the ship’s platform, whereas Thales would provide fire and control, C4R (combat management system TACTICOS) and combat system upgrades. Hagenuk Marinekommunikation would upgrade the communication systems.

Career of the Hydra class

In April 1988, the Hellenic Navy proposed and approved the construction of four frigates of the MEKO 200 type to modernize the fleet and after a long negotiation two contracts were signed:
-A contract with the ΜΕΚΟ Consortium (MC), Blohm + Voss AG and Thyssen Rheinstahl Technik for Hydra to be built Germany.
-A second contract with MEKO to supply parts to Hellenic Shipyard for building the remaining three Hydra-class in Scaramanga, Greece.
-First order passed on 10 February 1989 at Blohm + Voss, Hamburg.
-Remainder ordered on 10 May 1989 at Hellenic Shipyards, Skaramanga.

F-452 Hydra (Ύδρα) was laid down at Blohm + Voss on 17 Dec 1990 (so technically before the end of the cold war, hence the subject is studied here), launched on 25 June 1991, commissioned on November 12, 1992. Lead ship of the class, flagship of the Hellenic Navy she was built in the Blohm + Voss MEKO 200 facility, and three others by Hellenic Shipyards Co. at Skaramagas. She was delivered to the Hellenic Navy on 15 October 1992 and arrived in Greece on 28 January 1993. Her named and crest commemorated flags which the ships of Hydra island sailed under during the 1821 revolution.

On 12 May 2020, she left Salamis Island for Operation Irini, but was damaged for unknown reasons and was replaced by her sister Spetsai.
In March 2024, in response to the Red Sea crisis she was deployed there to protect shipping from Houthi attacks (UN Operation Aspides or “shield” in greek). She was then was equipped with new electronic warfare and anti-drone systems. On March 13, she spotted and shot down two Houthi drones with her 127mm gun.
In 25 April, Hydra fired shot two more drones as part of EUNAV FOR ASPIDES in the Gulf of Aden. It arrived when she was helping to protect a merchant vessel in her maritime route. She fired on two Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) according to the Rules of Engagement, the first was shot down, the other changed course.
She was back to Greece on 6 June 2024. Currently her current upgrade is seemingly over.

F-453 Spetsai (Σπέτσαι) was laid down at Hellenic Shipyards, Skaramanga on 11 Aug 1992, launched on 9 Dec 1993 and commisioned on October 24, 1996.
Logs are in research.

F-454 Psara (Ψαρά) was laid down at the Hellenic Shipyards on 12 Dec 1993, launched on 20 Dec 1994, and commissioned on April 30, 1998.
She took part in many NATO and international operations, Sharp Guard, Decisive Enhancement, Operation Enduring Freedom, EU Operation Atalanta.
On 29 March 2009, she was flagship of EU NAVFOR Atalanta, performing the capture of Somalian pirate ships, fleeing from an unsuccessful hijack attempt on the German tanker Spessart. She was assisted by HNLMS De Zeven Provinciën, the Spanish Victoria, and USS Boxer.
On 19 June 2024, with the Red Sea crisis, she was deployed to protect shipping from Houthi attacks (Operation Aspides). Her upgrade was partially done and she had the latest in electronic warfare and anti-drone systems. On July 7, 2024 in the Gulf of Aden while in close merchant vessel protection she engaged 4 UAVs posing a significant threat, downed, them while the rest changed course. More to come.

F-455 Salamis (Σαλαμίς) was laid down at the Hellenic Shipyards on 20 Dec 1994, launched on 15 May 1997, and commissioned last on December 16, 1998. She was the third ship of the Hellenic Navy to be named after Salamis Island and eponym Battle, the first being a projected, uncompleted dreadnought. No logs so far, in research.

Read More/Src

Books

Vice Admiral C. Paizis-Paradellis, HN (2002). Hellenic Warships 1829-2001 (3rd ed.). The Society for the study of Greek History.

Links

https://www.navalanalyses.com/2019/11/meko-200-ffg-mild-life-upgrade-mlu.html
https://www.seaforces.org/marint/Hellenic-Navy/Frigate/Hydra-class.htm
https://www.naval-technology.com/projects/hydra/
https://web.archive.org/web/20140201152051/http://www.hellenicnavy.gr/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=4&Itemid=247&lang=en
https://mc.nato.int/resources/site1/General/Operations/OSG/HS%20SPETSAI%20FactSheet.pdf

Hellenic Navy’s Hydra-class frigates MLU: Limited Budget but Many Possibilities

https://www.navalnews.com/event-news/cne-2024/2024/05/new-information-unveiled-on-the-greek-meko-200-frigate-upgrade-program/

thyssenkrupp Marine Systems and Thales Cooperate in Frigate MEKO 200HN Modernization Program

https://mc.nato.int/resources/site1/General/Operations/OSG/HS%20SPETSAI%20FactSheet.pdf
https://mc.nato.int/resources/site1/General/Operations/OSG/HS%20SPETSAI%20FactSheet.pdf
https://web.archive.org/web/20110614114142/http://www.hellenicnavy.gr/frigates_m_en.asp
https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2024/03/greek-frigate-hydra-enters-red-sea/
https://www.kathimerini.gr/politics/562962883/polemiko-naytiko-oi-nees-kathysteriseis-gia-tis-fregates-constellation-kai-oi-dyskoles-epiloges/
https://www.ekathimerini.com/news/1233219/greek-frigate-hydra-joins-aspides-operation-in-the-red-sea/
https://www.defence-point.gr/news/i-fregata-quot-spetsai-quot-stin-epicheirisi-irini-giati-apochorei-i-quot-ydra-quot

Επανάπλους της φρεγάτας ΥΔΡΑ στη Σαλαμίνα έπειτα από τρεις μήνες πολεμικής δράσης στην Ερυθρά θάλασσα

Πρώτο “soft kill” για το σύστημα αντι-drone της ΕΑΒ

Η φρεγάτα «Ψαρά» εντάσσεται στην επιχείρηση της ΕΕ «Aspides» – Η στιγμή που λύνει κάβους για την Ερυθρά θάλασσα

https://shipshub.com/classes/56-1.html
https://web.archive.org/web/20110614114142/http://www.hellenicnavy.gr/frigates_m_en.asp
https://www.twz.com/news-features/greek-warship-guns-down-houthi-drone-in-new-video
https://hellenicnavy.gr/episkepsi-yetha-nikou-dendia-stin-f-g-spetsai-prin-ton-apoplou-tis-prokeimenou-na-symmetaschei-stin-epicheirisi-aspides/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MEKO
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MEKO_200
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydra-class_frigate
https://hellenicnavy.gr/en/

Videos

Model Kits

https://www.scalemates.com/topics/topic.php?id=131248

3D

https://free3d.com/3d-model/meko-200-hydra-anzac-class-1258.html