Government confirms two unmanned aircraft were intercepted as Greece and France step up support amid regional tensions.
The Government confirmed that two unmanned aerial vehicles were detected heading towards the British Bases in Akrotiri and were intercepted in time. Authorities have activated all relevant protocols, with increased coordination at national and international level.
Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis said on Monday afternoon at the Presidential Palace that Cyprus remains on full operational readiness as regional tensions escalate.
Drone incident near Akrotiri
According to Mr Letymbiotis, information received around midday through intelligence exchanges with partner services indicated that two drones were moving towards the British Bases in Akrotiri. The aircraft were “dealt with in a timely manner”, based on the information available.
He clarified that the Republic of Cyprus was not a target and that the drones were directed towards the British Bases. He also confirmed that authorities know where the drones were intercepted, adding that they were not struck close to the coastline.
Reports referring to ballistic missiles directed at Cyprus were dismissed. The official information received through state channels concerns only the two unmanned aircraft.
Greek military support
President Nikos Christodoulides held a telephone conversation with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, during which it was agreed that Greece will deploy two naval frigates to Cyprus.
The vessels include the frigate Kimon and a second frigate equipped with the ‘Centaur’ counter-drone system, as previously announced by the Greek Minister of Defence.
In addition, a pair of F-16 fighter aircraft from the Hellenic Air Force will be sent to Cyprus as part of enhanced precautionary measures. Arrangements regarding their stationing are being coordinated with the Greek Ministry of Defence. The specific location will not be made public.
Contacts with France and other states
The President also communicated with French President Emmanuel Macron regarding reinforcement of precautionary measures. Mr Letymbiotis stated that France’s assistance will be similar to that of Greece.
Cyprus remains in continuous contact with the United Kingdom, the United States, France, Greece and other partner states. The Minister of Foreign Affairs has also communicated with the British Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, while there has been contact with the President of Lebanon.
Airspace and airport measures
Cyprus airspace remains open and operating normally. However, flight cancellations have occurred due to developments affecting other countries in the region. These cancellations are being announced by the airports.
Measures taken earlier at Paphos airport were linked to the drone incident near Akrotiri.
On reports regarding possible use of the British Bases by the United States, Mr Letymbiotis reiterated that Cyprus has formally expressed its dissatisfaction to the United Kingdom regarding previous statements. He referred to public remarks by the UK Foreign Secretary indicating that the British Bases in Cyprus were not among those discussed with the United States.
Civil defence and public reassurance
The Civil Defence has presented updated tools, including a mobile application enabling citizens to locate the nearest shelter. Over the past two years, efforts have been made to increase shelter capacity and preparedness.
The National Security Council remains in continuous session. All contingency plans have been activated and are under daily review.
Mr Letymbiotis urged media professionals to exercise caution in disseminating information and to verify reports carefully, noting that unverified claims often circulate during regional crises.
He stressed that all necessary measures have been taken and that the safety of the country and its citizens remains the primary concern. Cyprus continues to advocate de-escalation in the region.
Source: Presidency of the Republic of Cyprus