Another revised design, the OPV Zeus Mk3/HCG 680 Class. Two of these large patrol vessels built for Hellenic Coast Guard in mid 1980's, named from the two first commanders of Coast Guard in mid war period. Due to its size, the 680 Class is referred sometimes as "HCG frigates" by local press and TV news. Designed to accommodate one AS332C or two AS-365H Dauphin, the hangar is much larger than that of Messimvria/Kyrenia frigates and feature also a stern space for a 12m anti-smuggling vessel or a 11m RHIB. During current Atalanta mission, HCG 684 Rear Admiral Christofis deploys the newer USV of Hellenic Coast Guard, the Tethys Mk1 for final testing and the HC-60 UAV helicopter.
Armament is one OTO Melara 76mm (85 rpm), twin OTO Breda Dardo 40mm and twin single 20mm remote control turrets, plus two water canons.
Note: Do not think that HCG deploys AS332C in Atalanta, the Super Puma is too expensive to use there. Usually, the Dauphin or the AH-139 is the helicopter on board HCG patrol vessels off Somalia. Also, because Coast Guard crew always try to be within the limits of UN Agreements, they use the water canons to sink pirate boats and arrest them by on board vessels. Canons are used only if necessary.