Cyprus is operating under full operational readiness after two unmanned aerial drones heading towards the British bases at Akrotiri were intercepted. Government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis emphasised that the republic itself is not a target.
Letymbiotis stated, “All necessary measures are being taken and there is full operational readiness and coordination of all competent services.” This declaration comes in light of intelligence received shortly before noon, indicating that two drones were approaching the British bases at Akrotiri, prompting immediate activation of relevant protocols.
The heightened alert follows a drone strike shortly after midnight on the runway of RAF Akrotiri, which caused minor material damage but no injuries. An explosion was heard in surrounding areas, leading base authorities to instruct personnel to remain indoors and away from windows. Civil defence and police were mobilised, sealing access roads and monitoring aircraft movements closely in the aftermath.
British bases authorities confirmed that the drone involved in the overnight strike was small and unmanned, with no casualties reported. Personnel and their families were advised to stay in sheltered areas until further instructions were issued.
Following the detection of the two additional drones on Monday afternoon, precautionary evacuations were initiated in Akrotiri village. Letymbiotis noted that this decision was in accordance with the British bases command’s move to evacuate non-essential personnel from the base. “The Republic of Cyprus acted prudently and preventively,” he affirmed, stressing that these measures reflect preparedness rather than panic.
Residents were temporarily relocated to facilities in Limassol, including community centres and hotels, as local authorities coordinated with civil defence to provide transport and basic support. Officials assured that the evacuations were voluntary and precautionary, with no threat identified against civilian areas.
Temporary precautionary measures were also implemented at Paphos Airport, where operations were briefly adjusted. Letymbiotis confirmed that Cyprus remains in constant coordination with the United Kingdom, the United States, France, and Greece regarding aviation and civilian safety. “At the moment, Cyprus’ airspace is operating normally,” he reported, while acknowledging that some airlines have cancelled flights due to broader regional developments.
Passengers were advised to check with airlines for updated schedules, especially for routes impacted by airspace closures elsewhere in the region. Addressing the origin of the drones, Letymbiotis stated that information is under evaluation and will be disclosed once verified. He dismissed reports suggesting ballistic missiles had been launched towards Cyprus, clarifying, “The confirmed information concerns two unmanned drones.”
According to security sources, the drones were likely launched from Lebanon and were flying at very low altitudes, complicating their detection. Letymbiotis confirmed that the drone that struck the base was small and low-flying, presenting challenges for interception. “These are the challenges modern security environments pose,” he acknowledged.
The government is working on developing layered air defence systems and rapid information sharing. Letymbiotis also confirmed that President Nikos Christodoulides had spoken to Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to discuss additional preventive deployments, with Greece sending two navy frigates, including the frigate Kimon, as well as assets carrying the Kentaurus anti-drone system. Two F-16s from the Hellenic air force are also set to be deployed.
Letymbiotis expressed gratitude towards the Greek government for its immediate response, although he clarified that operational details regarding deployment locations and rules of engagement would not be made public for security reasons. He also confirmed that contact had been established between Christodoulides and French President Emmanuel Macron, with France expected to provide similar assistance.
“Our air defence systems, including recent assets acquired from Israel, are fully operational and actively deployed,” Letymbiotis stated. In response to public anxiety, he urged calm, highlighting that contingency plans are activated and reviewed daily. The National Security Council has convened, and all services, including civil defence, police, and the national guard, remain on heightened alert.
Authorities have acknowledged concerns raised by residents regarding warning systems and public alerts. Letymbiotis assured that communication procedures are under continuous review to ensure timely and clear information reaches communities in the event of any future incidents.
