Cyprus gets Isreali Air Defense System: Cyprus’ local media reported on Thursday (December 5, 2024) that Cyprus has received the delivery of an Israeli air defense system. After losing Russia, a major supplier of the defense sector, this island country in the Eastern Mediterranean has taken this step to upgrade its defense capabilities.

TV station Sigma reported that the first delivery of the Israeli air defense system was made on Tuesday (December 3). However, Cypriot officials have refused to comment on this report.

What did the Cyprus President say,

Cyprus President Nicos Christodoulides told reporters on Thursday (December 5), “I can only say that we are taking every necessary step to strengthen the power of Cyprus. Not only because we are an occupied country , but also because we are a European Union member state, located in a region of particularly geo-strategic importance.” Let us tell you that Cyprus was separated after the Turkish attack in 1974.

Barak MX anti-aircraft system will replace Russian Tor M1

Israel’s Barak MX anti-aircraft system will replace the older Russian Tor M1. Russia has been a major supplier of military equipment to Cyprus for decades. But after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in the year 2022, deals started decreasing even before a complete ban on exports was imposed.

“Due to sanctions imposed on Russia, Cyprus is facing a shortage of spare parts for its existing defense systems which cannot be upgraded,” a senior Cypriot source told Reuters.

The source said, “This is why Cyprus is turning towards other EU countries and Israel. Under this, efforts are also underway to upgrade our anti-aircraft defense.” However, Cypriot officials never openly disclose procurement programs, as this is a very sensitive matter given the ongoing tension with Turkey.

Also read: Russia is not able to help due to Israel’s concern over rebel attacks in Syria