Cyprus plans to begin upgrades to the Mari naval base and the Paphos air base in 2027, even if external funding is not secured, Defense Minister Vasilis Palmas has said.
Presenting his ministry’s work, Palmas said employment terms for contract soldiers were improved last year, new equipment programs were advanced with a focus on modern systems, and bilateral defense ties expanded with Serbia, the United Arab Emirates and India.
He said the government also approved measures to strengthen the military reserve.
Palmas said protective equipment purchased from Israel is expected to arrive in March 2027, and that efforts to develop Cyprus’ defense industry are moving ahead.
He added that Cyprus has signed an agreement to lease four firefighting helicopters from Slovakia.
The aircraft will be ready for operations from April 1.