Accra:The Republic of Cyprus' Defence Minister, Vasilis Palmas, emphasized the strategic priorities of Cyprus' defence policy during the final phase of the IRIS-2026 Field Exercise. His focus was on the European Union's SAFE programme, ongoing defence procurement, and enhancing national defence capabilities.

According to Cyprus News Agency, Minister Palmas underscored the importance of maintaining robust defence and deterrence capabilities as vital for the National Guard's mission to ensure the security of Cyprus. He highlighted that military exercises are crucial for training personnel, assessing readiness, and ensuring effective coordination among military units.

Palmas stated that the National Guard has been instrumental in protecting Cyprus' independence and territorial integrity. He pointed out that the complex international security environment necessitates a continuous upgrade of the Republic's operational capabilities. The ongoing multi-year defence procurement programme aims to modernize existing systems and acquire advanced equipment to bolster defence operations.

The Minister also expressed Cyprus' intention to maximize the benefits of the EU's SAFE programme for the domestic defence industry. Efforts are underway to strengthen defence diplomacy by forging new partnerships and enhancing cooperation with regional and international allies. Upgrades to naval and air force infrastructure are also in progress.

Minister Palmas highlighted the priority given to personnel training and development, alongside measures to support career advancement within the Ministry of Defence. He linked the reinforcement of Cyprus' defence to the historical context of the Turkish invasion and continued occupation.

National Guard Chief, Lieutenant General Emmanouel Theodorou, remarked on the modernization efforts within the National Guard. These include adopting innovative practices, enhancing infrastructure resiliency, and providing realistic training. The IRIS-2026 exercise featured advanced capabilities such as unmanned aerial vehicles and anti-drone systems, some of which were developed domestically. The exercise also showcased the integration of these technologies with assets like F-16 fighter jets, helicopters, and various military units to simulate modern battlefield conditions.