Cyprus and Greece are in talks over the possible transfer of around 90 Leopard 1A5 tanks to the Cypriot National Guard, Fileleftheros reported.
According to the newspaper, discussions between the two governments come at a time of shifting geopolitical conditions, the war in the Middle East and growing pressure on global defense industries. Military and defense officials from both countries have begun examining whether Leopard 1A5 tanks currently in service with the Greek Army could be reassigned to the National Guard.
Based on information cited in the report, Greece is considering providing between 75 and 90 Leopard 1A5 tanks, which would help complete or reinforce three tank brigades. The National Guard’s existing armored fleet includes older systems, such as the 126 EE‑9 Cascavel vehicles delivered in the 1980s.
A National Guard delegation is expected to travel to Greece next week to inspect the condition of the Leopard 1A5s before any decision is made.
The report also notes that talks between the Cypriot government and Greek defense company EODH on establishing a factory in Cyprus—aimed at upgrading the National Guard’s armored capabilities—have reached a sensitive stage. EODH is expected to invest around €50 million in the first phase. The company recently announced the creation of EODH Dynamics in Cyprus, presented during last month’s “Battlefield Redefined” defense and security expo.
According to the newspaper, Greece’s willingness to transfer Leopard 1A5 tanks appears linked to these ongoing negotiations, with the Cypriot government reportedly making the tank transfer a key condition in the broader cooperation framework.