Cyprus expands international defence and security partnerships

Cyprus is actively expanding its international defence partnerships through cooperation with Israel, Greece, and the United States.

The Israeli embassy in Nicosia has expressed interest in deepening ties with Cyprus by moving beyond procurement toward a joint defence industry. This potential cooperation includes joint projects and technology sharing, building on existing relationships such as Cyprus' purchase of the Barak MX air defence system. This trilateral dynamic involving Israel, Cyprus, and Greece is viewed as a mechanism to strengthen security in the eastern Mediterranean.

Simultaneously, Cyprus is working to broaden its military ties with the United States through the State Partnership Programme (SPP). Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas met with New Jersey Adjutant General Brigadier General Yvonne L. Mays to discuss expanding cooperation between the Cyprus National Guard and the New Jersey National Guard. Since being paired in 2022, the partnership has included training in explosive ordnance disposal, cybersecurity, and leadership development.