Cyprus Continues to Receive Israeli Air Defense Deliveries, Ankara Says It Is Monitoring Developments
Israeli-made air defense systems were delivered to the Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus on September 11, according to local media reports. This development, confirmed by Turkish security sources, marks a significant expansion of the island’s military capabilities amid rising regional tensions.
Greek Cypriot officials, who had earlier pledged to strengthen defenses against regional threats, have reportedly received three separate deliveries from Israel since late 2024. Reuters reported in December 2024 that the administration took delivery of its first Israeli-made air defense system.
On 11 September 2025, footage emerged showing a shipment departing from Limassol Port. According to local sources, the shipment contained newly acquired Israeli air defense systems.
🚨#BreakingNews | Israeli-made air defense systems were seen being transported from Limassol port towards the interior of Cyprus. pic.twitter.com/6uDVNzG24j
— Mintel World (@mintelworld) September 12, 2025
The Greek daily Kathimerini reported in March that the systems supplied by Israel were Barak MX units produced by Israel Aerospace Industries and that some had already been activated.
Turkish security sources told Mintel World that the systems are currently undergoing tests at Paphos Airbase but have not yet been placed into active service. They added that subsequent shipments from Israel are also being closely monitored.
Israeli shipments are being carried out through Paphos Airbase, Limassol Port, and Larnaca International Airport.
On the evening of September 11, an Israeli Air Force C-130J transport aircraft landed at Larnaca International Airport.
One of the air defense systems is expected to be deployed at Paphos Airbase, the country’s largest air facility, while another is anticipated to be stationed at Evangelos Florakis Naval Base, the country’s largest naval installation.
