Cyprus is looking to boost defence industry participation in military procurement programmes as its newly established Defence Industry Council held its first official meeting, chaired by President Nikos Christodoulides.
The government aims to foster partnerships between Cypriot companies and foreign arms manufacturers to support the National Guard’s needs, following a practice common in countries seeking to strengthen their domestic defence capabilities.
“Initial overtures have already been made to countries with which Cyprus is in talks for weapons systems purchases,” an official source said.
The council, which will normally be chaired by the Defence Minister but was led by President Christodoulides for its inaugural session at the Presidential Palace, will prepare reports every six months to update the president on efforts to enhance the defence industry.
Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas told reporters after the meeting that short, medium and long-term goals had been established.
“We have all concluded that things have matured to such a degree that we can be proud the Cypriot Defence Industry can produce products to strengthen both the country’s defence and other services across the broader spectrum of the Republic of Cyprus,” Palmas said.
When asked what constitutes defence industry, Palmas explained it includes companies producing items that can contribute to national defence, “from software programs and drones to other military equipment which, under specific conditions, Cypriot industries can produce either independently or through partnerships to support the National Guard”.
The initiative aligns with broader European Union efforts, as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is set to present a comprehensive plan for upgrading EU defence industry production capabilities to member states on March 6.
Palmas confirmed Cyprus, which has submitted its own proposal, “can contribute” to this European initiative.
The Cyprus Defence Industry Council was established by Cabinet decision on January 15, 2025, with the Ministry of Defence describing it as “a significant step toward developing and strengthening Cyprus’s defence industry sector”.
The Council has committed to developing a comprehensive policy framework aimed at enhancing the country’s defence industry for medium and long-term sustainability and competitiveness, while reducing the National Guard’s supply chain dependence on foreign companies.
