Nicosia: Cyprus’ Council of Ministers approved the Ministry of Defence’s list of armament programmes to be submitted to the European Commission under the EU’s SAFE Regulation. In statements after the Cabinet meeting, at the Presidential Palace, Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas announced that the list would be formally sent to the Commission on November 30. Once fully approved, Cyprus will be eligible to access £1.2 billion in low-interest funding, allowing the state to enhance its defence capabilities within Europe’s new framework for defence capability.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the Defence Minister declined to provide specific details about the types of armament programmes prioritised. However, he noted that the SAFE mechanism was created for all EU member states to enhance their defence, particularly in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Palmas emphasized that Cyprus’ list focuses on purely defensive systems aimed at deterrence and protection. He stressed that Cyprus is a peaceful country, with part of its territory occupied for 51 years, and it is essential for the Republic to strengthen its defence. None of the listed systems have offensive intentions.
Palmas also highlighted the EU’s goal to support European industrial participation, with several Cypriot companies potentially taking part in projects funded through SAFE. Regarding the main countries from which Cyprus orders equipment, the Minister mentioned that cooperation on SAFE-related projects might involve additional partner states beyond France and Germany.
In response to questions about the supply of US military equipment, Palmas clarified that Cyprus’ defence cooperation with the United States operates separately from the EU SAFE mechanism. Through a bilateral programme, Cyprus can access US surplus military equipment. Nicosia is currently awaiting an invitation from US authorities to inspect available material, with acquisitions based strictly on operational needs.