Cyprus Defence Industry’s Potential Growth
cyprus defence — Cyprus’s defence industry is poised to make a significant contribution to the nation’s GDP, with President Nikos Christodoulides highlighting the potential for a double-digit share in the coming years. This ambition is contingent upon a close partnership between the state and local industry.
Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com
Showcasing Local Innovations
The Battlefield Redefined defence and security exhibition in Nicosia serves as a platform for Cypriot companies to showcase a range of products. Displayed items include unmanned aircraft, anti-tank missiles, specialist vehicles, and maritime vessels. President Christodoulides emphasised that Cyprus is transitioning from being a consumer of defence solutions to becoming a producer and a key player in European defence.
Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com
Engagement in European Defence Initiatives
Over the past five years, 18 Cypriot firms have engaged in 44 projects funded by the European Defence Industrial Development Programme and the European Defence Fund, with a combined budget of around €600 million. The direct financial support to these companies totals approximately €48 million. Christodoulides noted that this involvement has shifted Cyprus from a peripheral player to a significant contributor within the European defence and dual-use technology landscape.
Focus of the Conference
The two-day conference brings together European institutions, national authorities, and innovation bodies, focusing on various aspects of EU defence industrial readiness. The first day addresses the transition from strategic initiatives to operational capabilities, while also considering hybrid threats, cybersecurity, and space as crucial components of defence. The following day will delve into financial strategies for Europe’s defence transition and how to scale innovations from prototypes to mass production.
Implementation of Strategic Policies
Reflecting on last year’s conference, Christodoulides reiterated the six policies aimed at bolstering the defence industry, all of which have moved into implementation. These include:
- A National Defence Industry Strategy in collaboration with the European Commission.
- International industrial cooperation, targeting a 15% participation rate for Cypriot companies in arms procurement programmes.
- Establishment of a National Registry of Cypriot Defence Manufacturers.
- Increased funding to facilitate the transition from research and development to production.
- State-funded national pavilions at upcoming defence exhibitions, DEFEA 2025 and EUROSATORY 2026.
- The SOLIS satellite communications project, identified as a strategic milestone for national and European security.
The Urgency for Enhanced Defence Capabilities
In light of the ongoing war in Ukraine, regional conflicts, and the Turkish military presence in Cyprus, Christodoulides underscored the pressing need to enhance deterrence and defence readiness. He noted that modern defence strategies now encompass cybersecurity and space, areas where Cyprus aims to assert an influential role.
A Vision for the Future
Concluding his address, Christodoulides called for a collaborative effort towards “a stronger future for Cyprus and for Europe.” His remarks reflect a commitment to reinforcing the defence industry as a cornerstone of national security and economic growth.
