Cyprus’ participation in the EU’s Security Action for Europe (SAFE) initiative has been approved, along with its full defence procurement list and a €1.2 billion allocation, clearing the way for the National Guard to acquire five new attack helicopters, tanks and unmanned aerial vehicles, the Kathimerini weekly reported.
According to the paper, the first tranche of the €1.2 billion package is expected to be released in the second half of 2026.
The approved list includes ammunition of various calibres, tanks, helicopters and UAVs to be purchased from EU member states. Air‑defence systems are not included, as Cyprus has already covered that requirement with the Israeli‑made Barak system.
Alongside SAFE‑funded purchases, Cyprus will continue acquiring systems from non‑EU countries using its own resources. Military sources told the paper that Nicosia is pursuing an additional Barak unit to reinforce the system recently added to the National Guard’s arsenal.
They also said Israeli Merkava tanks remain of interest, though exports have been restricted due to Israel’s wartime conditions and EU‑sourced alternatives are available through SAFE.
Tank procurement is at the top of Cyprus’ list, with the National Guard seeking to replace its 41 Russian‑made units. The two main options are Germany’s Leopard and France’s Leclerc, with the final choice depending on cost, availability and whether the vehicles are new or second‑hand. France is seen as having an advantage due to existing defence cooperation.
Cyprus also aims to strengthen its air capabilities.
After purchasing six H145M attack helicopters from France for €140 million using national funds, Nicosia now intends to exercise the “+6” option in the contract by acquiring five more of the same model through SAFE. UAV procurement is also planned, with options involving Israeli and Ukrainian companies operating in Cyprus.