A number of top experts from the United Kingdom arrived in Cyprus on Friday to enhance the air defences of the British bases on the island, according to British Defence Secretary John Healey.
- A number of top experts from the United Kingdom arrived in Cyprus on Friday to enhance the air defences of the British bases on the island, according to British Defence Secretary John Healey.
- Further developments are expected as Spain and Italy are also preparing to send naval assets to Cyprus and its surrounding areas in the upcoming days.
In a video message filmed at the Akrotiri air force base, Healey stated, “We have got top experts today arriving in this island, on Cyprus, to help coordinate the air defences – not just what the UK is doing, but alongside the United States and other allies that are putting in their ships and their systems now.”
Healey’s visit was not solely focused on defence measures; he took the opportunity to express gratitude to the British forces stationed on the island. “Above all, this visit is a chance just to meet the extraordinary British forces personnel on the base today and say a big thank you,” he added. This message of appreciation was conveyed on behalf of the British people and government, as well as the islanders of Cyprus, for their role in maintaining safety.
As part of this defence enhancement, Healey confirmed the arrival of two AW159 Wildcat helicopters and mentioned the deployment of newly arrived F-35 jets, which had been sent to Cyprus last month. Additionally, he highlighted the HMS Dragon, a Type 45 destroyer warship, which is expected to set sail from Portsmouth next week.
Cypriot Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos echoed Healey’s sentiments, stating that the Cypriot government was prepared for the British assets to be integrated into the island’s defensive system. He noted that coordination with the UK’s military presence was in progress.
The situation has drawn attention from other nations as well. Greece has deployed naval assets, including the Kimon frigate, which Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis referred to as the “pride of the Greek fleet.” Meanwhile, the French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle is en route to the region, signalling a broader international involvement.
Further developments are expected as Spain and Italy are also preparing to send naval assets to Cyprus and its surrounding areas in the upcoming days.
On Thursday night, British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer revealed that Cyprus had been utilised as a launchpad for operations aimed at engaging and neutralising drones fired from Iran. The British Defence Ministry had earlier announced that F-35 fighter jets conducted missions over Jordan, successfully shooting down Iranian drones. This marked a significant milestone as the first operational engagement of a Royal Air Force F-35 in such a context.
