Perseus: The Navy’s state-of-the-art technology in action – Impressive footage of its first operations on the high seas

For the first time, the Navy has unveiled video footage and images of the Perseus in action. The general support ship has been part of the fleet for nearly two years and boasts advanced technology.

The official commissioning and naming ceremony for Perseus occurred in June 2024 at the Salamis Naval Station. The vessel was gifted to the Navy by retired Rear Admiral Panagiotis Laskaridis, shipowner and president of the “Aikaterini Laskaridis” Foundation.

Present at the ceremony was the President of the Republic of Latvia. Measuring 105 meters in length, the ship underwent a significant refurbishment in 2007, costing $50 million.

Watch the video showcasing Perseus’ operations

Features of Perseus

The ship is equipped with a hybrid propulsion system and an electropower mechanism that minimizes its acoustic signature, enabling stealthy operations. It has a power output of 11MW, sufficient to supply energy to a medium-sized island, and can reach maximum speeds of 17 knots. Additionally, it is designed to transport approximately 3,000 cubic meters of F-76 fuel and is fitted with a helipad compatible with all helicopters in the Hellenic Armed Forces. The vessel is also fully equipped for seismic and geophysical research missions.

Perseus features two spacious covered decks and a sloped stern for launching and retrieving fast vessels. It is also equipped with three robust cranes, each with a lifting capacity of 10 tons over a 10-meter span.

This versatile vessel is suitable for various critical military and humanitarian missions, capable of carrying large numbers of personnel and heavy equipment on its secure, covered decks, allowing for rapid deployment and recovery.

Notably, during Perseus’ inaugural series of missions, the frigate Kimon conducted its first successful sea trials in France, aligning with the launch of the third FDI frigate, Belharra Formia.

The significance of Perseus as a general support ship was emphasized by Defence Minister Nikos Dendias during her handover ceremony. He remarked, “Perseus plays a vital role in the operational strategy and capability of the Fleet.”

“Greece possesses the largest merchant fleet globally, with our flag sailing across all seas. However, a robust Merchant Navy requires the backing of a Naval force capable of operating beyond the horizon. The Navy’s ability to extend its reach relies on support ships like Perseus, which significantly contribute to this effort.”