New development regarding Greek military presence in Southern Cyprus: Becoming permanent

Reports in the Greek Cypriot press indicate that the Republic of Cyprus, as part of deepening defense cooperation with Greece, wants to make the presence of Greek fighter jets stationed at the Andreas Papandreou Air Base in Paphos permanent.

According to information obtained, the Greek Cypriot administration is demanding more effective protection of the FIR line, citing the drone attack on the British sovereign base area of Akrotiri in early March. In this context, it was stated that the periodic deployment of Greek fighter jets is no longer considered sufficient, and a more stable and continuous presence is being targeted.

It was reported that plans are in place to extend the mission duration of Greek fighter jets in Southern Cyprus, that personnel rotations will continue, and that changes may be made to the air assets deployed in the region in the future. It was noted that the F-16 fighter jets currently in Southern Cyprus could be replaced by twin-engine F-4 Phantom aircraft in the coming period. It was stated that these air assets contribute to the development of cooperation, coordination, and interoperability between the Greek Cypriot National Guard and the Hellenic Air Force. On the other hand, it was noted that frigates belonging to the Hellenic Navy are also expected to continue operating off the coast of Southern Cyprus for the purpose of monitoring and protecting the so-called Greek Cypriot Exclusive Economic Zone.

While it was stated that the Hellenic Navy frigate "Elli (F450)" is currently in the region, it was noted that the ship is equipped with OTO Melara naval guns, Phalanx close-in weapon systems, Sea Sparrow surface-to-air missile systems, and Harpoon guided missiles.

It was also stated that the ship is equipped with anti-submarine warfare and electronic countermeasures systems, and that crew rotations will be carried out at specific intervals.

Agreement signed with France

It was stated that the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) signed between Southern Cyprus and France establishes the legal framework for joint operations, exercises, and military deployments. It was noted that the agreement includes regulations regarding the duties and responsibilities of military personnel, command structure, operational and technical support mechanisms, as well as joint training activities and multinational missions. While it was stated that the SOFA Agreement aims to facilitate operational cooperation, increase interoperability, and provide a faster response to common security and defense tasks, it was emphasized that it allows for the faster deployment and support of military units. It was reported that the cooperation under the agreement covers joint exercises such as Argonaut and Eunomia, as well as naval, land, and air assets, and also includes regulations regarding the French military presence in the region.

News Source: 12punto