Cyprus and Israel sign defense deal for new patrol vessel

The Ministries of Defense of Cyprus and Israel signed an agreement on October 26, 2026, for the acquisition of a new Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV). The new vessel will be constructed by Israel Shipyards and equipped with advanced naval systems from Rafael Advanced Defense Systems.

In addition to the new procurement, the agreement includes a comprehensive upgrade of the systems aboard Cyprus’ existing patrol vessel, the ‘Andreas Ioannidis’, which was also built by Israel Shipyards. The deal aims to enhance the operational capabilities of the Cyprus Naval Command, specifically regarding maritime security, surveillance, patrol missions, and search-and-rescue operations in the Eastern Mediterranean.

While the official cost was not disclosed by the ministries, Israeli media reports have estimated the value of the agreement to be approximately 150 million euros. The signing ceremony in Cyprus was attended by high-ranking officials, including Israel’s Deputy Director General of Defense, Major General (Res.) Amir Baram, and Cyprus’ Acting Director General of Defense, Stelios Kountouris.