The Republic of Cyprus will begin receiving €1.2 billion in EU defence funding from the second half of 2026

The Republic of Cyprus will start receiving the first tranche of European Union defence funding amounting to €1.2 billion from the second half of 2026.

Brussels has fully approved the list of defence needs submitted by Nicosia. This includes the procurement of ammunition of all calibres, tanks, helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles from EU member states. Air defence and missile defence systems are not included, as these needs are already covered by the previously acquired Israeli Barak system.

Part of the armaments will be procured through the European SAFE mechanism; however, the Republic of Cyprus will continue direct purchases from third countries, including Israel. According to military sources, the possibility of further strengthening the Barak system is currently under consideration.

Top priority on the procurement list is the renewal of the National Guard’s tank fleet. Plans include replacing 41 Russian-made tanks. The main options are German Leopard and French Leclerc tanks. The final decision will depend on price, quantity and the condition of the equipment. France is considered the preferred partner within the framework of existing defence cooperation.

Enhancing aviation capabilities is also among the priorities. Following the purchase of six H145M attack helicopters using national funds, the Republic of Cyprus intends to acquire five additional helicopters of the same type, fully financing the deal through SAFE funds.

Special attention is also being paid to the development of unmanned systems. To expand the UAV fleet, markets in Greece, the Czech Republic and Poland are being considered, in addition to existing cooperation with Israeli and Ukrainian companies.