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Cyprus authorities are considering strengthening the island's air defenses following recent incidents involving suspected Iranian drones in the region. In this context, the government is preparing to purchase four "Kentauros" anti-drone systems, a technology developed by the Greek military industry.
The purchase is included in the European SAFE security program and has received approval from the European Union institutions. The system is already in use by the Greek armed forces and has also been deployed on the Greek frigate HS Psara (F-454), which is currently stationed in Cyprus together with the frigate HS Kimon (F-601).
Air patrols by F-16 aircraft
Greece has increased its military presence in support of Cyprus. Authorities in Nicosia consider this support important to compensate for gaps in the country's air defense.
F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter jets of the Viper version from Greece conduct almost nightly reconnaissance patrols over Cypriot airspace to identify potential threats.
These patrols take place in rotation with British fighter jets operating from the air base in Akrotiri.
Operation of the "Kentauros" system
The "Kentauros" anti-drone system, developed by Hellenic Aerospace Industry, is designed to detect and neutralize unmanned aerial vehicles through electronic interference.
The technology identifies drones and disrupts their communication by blocking the signals that enable them to operate. In this way, the system neutralizes the threat without using conventional weapons.
Greek forces have also tested this system during Navy operations in the Red Sea against Houthi rebels.
The incident at the Akrotiri base
Discussion of strengthening air defenses increased after an Iranian Shahed-136 drone penetrated Cypriot airspace on March 2 and struck the British base in Akrotiri.
The President of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, stated that the country does not participate in military operations and does not intend to be involved in the conflict, while emphasizing that state institutions are on operational readiness.
The attack came a day after British Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed that the United Kingdom had accepted a request from the United States for the use of British bases in defensive operations against Iranian missiles.
The Akrotiri base, located south of Limassol, has been used for years as a strategic point for military operations in the Middle East.
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