Alpha News

Cyprus Secures €1.2 Billion Defense Package Under SAFE Program

Published January 17, 2026, 20:14

Cyprus has received approval for a defense package worth €1.2 billion under the European Union's SAFE program. The package includes French battle tanks, Airbus H145M attack helicopters, AKHERON and SPIKE missiles, personnel carrier vehicles, unmanned surface vessels (USV), anti-drone systems, and ammunition. The aim is to strengthen the deterrent power of the Republic of Cyprus. Simultaneously, the installation of a second anti-aircraft system is being promoted, along with the construction of a second offshore patrol vessel in cooperation with Israel, and the upgrade of Andreas Papandreou and Evangelos Florakis bases with the assistance of the US and the European Investment Bank.