Larnaca: The Cyprus-Greece bilateral search and rescue exercise 'SALAMIS-02/26' was conducted from March 30 to April 7, featuring the involvement of the Hellenic Navy frigates Kimon and Psara.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the exercise occurred within the Republic of Cyprus' designated search and rescue area of responsibility. It featured collaborative efforts from multiple units, including a helicopter from the National Guard's 460 Search and Rescue Squadron, a helicopter from the Police Air Operations Unit, and paramedics from the Ambulance Service's specialized MEDEVAC team.
The Joint Rescue Coordination Center (JRCC) in Larnaca orchestrated the exercise in partnership with Greece's Hellenic National Defence General Staff. This collaboration was carried out under the existing interstate search and rescue agreement between Cyprus and Greece.
The provisions of this agreement are activated through such exercises, which aim to enhance search and rescue services in the eastern Mediterranean region, as emphasized in the press release.