ATHENS – Just as Turkey has sent an energy research vessel near the island of Limnos and continues raising tension, Greece’s Navy is reportedly reviewing proposals from France, the United States, The Netherlands, Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom to buy warships to bolster its defenses in case of a conflict.

The Navy and Defense Ministry are looking at two versions of the French FDI frigates (French and “Greek” configuration of Belh@rra), the American MMSC, the Dutch SIGMA 115, two German A200s and A300s, the British Type 31 (Arrowhead 140) and the Spanish F110, said Kathimerini in a report.

Citing sources not identified, the paper said that Greece will send proposals letters to France – talks were already underway to buy a half dozen frigates along with Rafale fighter -jets – and to the US, which wants a bigger military presence in Greece.

An Italian bid, which arrived after February 17, will be evaluated within the next few months. The Italians have proposed the construction of four FREMM-type frigates.