The Berenice FREMM Bergamini frigate arrived at the Alexandria Naval Base to join the Egyptian naval fleet, the Armed Forces spokesman said in a statement on Thursday.

The frigate is built by the Fincantieri Italian Company according to the latest standards of armament systems and combat efficiency, the statement added.

The new frigate, which can sail for a distance of 6,000 nautical miles, is equipped with several technical features and modern armament systems that enable it to carry out all marine combat functions.

The Commander of the Egyptian Navy Forces Lieutenant General Ahmed Khaled, who attended the reception event, said the Armed Forces General Command is keen on carrying out a comprehensive strategy to upgrade the Egyptian fleet to boost the combat capabilities of the naval forces.

He added that the new frigate will double the navy's deterrence power to achieve security and stability in the region, maintain peace, and secure maritime navigation amid the challenges facing the region. 

The combat ship is the second of its kind to join the Egyptian Naval Forces following the Galala frigate as per the Egyptian-Italian contract.

The statement noted that the frigate is a "huge" technological addition brought to support the capabilities of the Egyptian navy to secure the maritime borders and navigation lines as well as ground troops along the coast during defensive and offensive operations.

The frigate will also help secure the natural resources of the country in the Mediterranean and Red seas, according to the statement.

The Commander of the Egyptian Navy Forces Lieutenant General Ahmed Khaled addressing attendees at the frigate reception event. Photo courtesy of the spokesman of the Egyptian Armed Forces.

The Commander of the Egyptian Navy Forces Lieutenant General Ahmed Khaled addressing officers at the reception of the frigate

Youth receiving the Italian frigate. Photo courtesy of the spokesman for the Egyptian Armed Forces.