The Republic of Cyprus is in advanced discussions with French defence manufacturers to purchase more than 150 armoured military vehicles, according to reports in the French and Cypriot press.
The daily Alithia, citing La Tribune, said the government is negotiating with French companies KNDS and Arquus for the acquisition of “Griffon” and “Serval” armoured vehicles.
Talks with KNDS are described as being at an advanced stage, though no final agreement has been concluded.
The deal is reportedly linked to the EU’s SAFE programme, which supports joint defence procurement among member states.
The vehicles could be equipped with the Akeron MP anti‑tank missile system, the report said.
In parallel, Cyprus is planning to modernise part of its existing fleet. The National Guard currently operates around 150 VAB armoured vehicles, and authorities are considering upgrading roughly 80 of them.
A separate report by Philenews put the expected order at about 80 VBMR Griffon vehicles and around 100 VBMR‑L Serval units.
