Greek energy firm positioned as strategic partner in French naval supply chain

Greek industrial and energy company Metlen on Monday announced that it recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Naval Group, a French industrial company specialising in naval defense, including the designing and building of submarines and warships.

The signing took place on March 19 at the M Technologies defence facilities in Volos, in the presence of French Ambassador to Greece Laurence Auer, to explore collaboration in submarine and surface ship projects.

“This MoU marks a further step in strengthening an already established partnership, positioning Metlen as a strategic partner within Naval Group’s supply chain,” the announcement said.

The agreement builds on existing cooperation between the two companies in naval programmes.

“Already benefiting from Metlen’s expertise regarding the manufacture of some key element for the FDI frigate on both Hellenic and French programmes, Naval Group considers Metlen’s know how as a key asset, which could lead to broader industrial cooperation across multiple naval platforms in the field of surface ships and submarines for the global markets,” the announcement stated.

The MoU reflects broader ambitions within the European defence sector.

“This agreement highlights the shared ambition of both companies to support complex naval systems and contribute to a more resilient and competitive European defence ecosystem,” the announcement said.

It also underlines growing bilateral cooperation between Greece and France.

“It also reflects the steadily strengthening Franco Greek industrial ties, further reinforcing bilateral cooperation,” the announcement added.

The cooperation follows earlier collaboration launched in 2022.

“Initiated in 2022 for the FDI for Hellenic Navy programme, Naval Group’s robust Hellenic Industrial Participation involves already more than 70 Greek companies,” the announcement said.

The programme extends beyond a single defence project. “Beyond the FDI program, this industrial plan has already had numerous and lasting economic benefits for the Hellenic industry by making it possible to integrate Greek companies into Naval Group’s supply chain for current and future French and export programs,” the announcement stated.

What is more, the development is expected to support the wider defence industry base.

“From that broad perspective, the Hellenic Defence Industrial and Technological Base will enhance its position in the global naval defence market,” the announcement said.

Metlen is also expanding its domestic defence manufacturing footprint.

“Metlen continues to invest in the future of defence manufacturing, including the development of a six plant defence industrial hub in Volos, further strengthening its role in supporting major European programmes,” the announcement stated.

The announcement further stated that the company’s investments are positioned within a wider strategic context.

“Through strategic investments, M Technologies contributes to enhancing strategic autonomy in defence for Greece and Europe, advancing reindustrialisation and critical technologies,” the announcement concluded.