Strengthening the Cyprus Republic’s deterrent capability and adapting to evolving security dynamics shaped by conflicts in the region are top priorities, said Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Palmas also referred to the importance of advancing critical infrastructure projects and leveraging European tools such as the Security for Action (SAFE) programme.
Regarding the year that passed, Palmas said 2025 was marked by significant shifts, including the escalation of existing conflicts, the strengthening of strategic alliances and a reshaping of the global security architecture. He noted that the prolonged Turkish occupation of Cyprus, combined with developments in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East have created new challenges for the Republic.
Strategic approach
Palmas said the ministry’s strategic approach to strengthening the country’s defence capabilities is built on three main pillars: “Enhancing deterrence and security, promoting environmentally sustainable practices, and advancing digital transformation."
Reviewing key achievements, Palmas highlighted progress in implementing the National Guard’s armaments programme, and the efficient management of financial resources to achieve a 95% budget absorption rate.
Asked about the impact of modern warfare, Palmas said Cyprus is adapting its armaments programmes to new realities, particularly the growing role of unmanned systems such as drones in conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine.
Infrastructure upgrades will go ahead
The minister said planned upgrades of the ‘Evangelos Florakis’ Naval Base in Mari and the ‘Andreas Papandreou’ Airbase in Paphos would proceed regardless of external funding. Previous estimates of the upgrades were rumoured to reach a potential €300 million combined.
Palmas underlined the strategic importance of the upgrade of both bases for Cyprus’ regional role. He noted the decision was taken in response to the evolving geopolitical environment and Cyprus’ defence policy of providing facilities to partner countries within bilateral and multilateral frameworks, as well as EU commitments.
Perhaps to counter the narrative mainly from Ankara that Cyprus is inviting trouble by offering use of its bases to foreign militaries, the minister clarified that both facilities remain under the exclusive ownership, control and management of the Republic of Cyprus.
Defence diplomacy
Palmas described cooperation with Greece as being at a “very high level,” citing the recent deployment of two frigates and four F-16 fighter jets to support Cyprus’ defence. He added that cooperation with countries such as Israel, Egypt, Jordan and Armenia continues to deepen, while new partnerships are being pursued with Serbia, the United Arab Emirates and India.
The minister also highlighted the strengthening of ties with the United States through the State Partnership Programme, which includes regular joint exercises and the establishment of an annual defence and security dialogue. In this context, procedures are underway to place a ministry representative in New Jersey in 2026.
At the European level, Palmas underlined Cyprus’ participation in EU missions and initiatives, including operations in the Red Sea and training programmes for Ukrainian personnel, as well as contributions to United Nations missions such as UNIFIL in Lebanon.
Defence industry
The minister highlighted the importance of the EU’s financial instrument Security Action for Europe (SAFE) for Cyprus, with approved funding of €1.118 billion expected to support key defence needs. Palmas said: “The investment plan has already been approved and is being implemented, with completion scheduled by 2030.”
He referred to efforts to strengthen the domestic defence industry, including support for Cypriot companies to participate in future armaments programmes and the development of a national defence industry strategy with EU backing.
‘Unfortunate moment’
Referring to the loss of 13.6 kilograms of explosive material from a firing range, Palmas spoke of “an unfortunate moment” for both the Ministry and the National Guard. He confirmed that responsibilities have been identified and will be assigned, while police investigations are ongoing. No scenario, including theft, can be ruled out at this stage, he said.
Cyprus EU Presidency
On Cyprus’ Presidency of the EU Council, he said priorities include continued support for Ukraine, strengthening the European defence industry, enhancing maritime security, and supporting humanitarian and civilian evacuation operations.
Source: CNA