A convoy of upgraded ACV-15T1 armoured fighting vehicles belonging to the Turkish Armed Forces was observed in the occupied Morphou area, in a video published by the Turkish Cypriot newspaper Kıbrıs Gazetesi.
Vehicles spotted on main road
The Turkish armoured vehicles were seen moving along the old central Morphou–Lefka road, heading in an unknown direction. Their passage drew the attention of local residents in the area.
Upgrades and capabilities
The ACV-15 vehicles have undergone T1 modernisation by Turkish companies Aselsan and FNSS. Upgrades include new electro-optical systems, remotely controlled weapon stations (RCWS), and enhanced armour protection.
Context and regional developments
The appearance of these vehicles coincided with the deployment of six Turkish F-16 jets to the occupied areas. Reports also indicate recent movements involving aerial surveillance aircraft at the illegal Tymbou (Ercan) airport and the installation of new monitoring systems in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Analysts suggest that the deployment of upgraded military equipment in Morphou forms part of Ankara’s broader effort to enhance the operational capability of occupation forces, citing “security measures” amid developments in the Middle East.
US reaction
US Democratic Senator Gregory Meeks criticised the Turkish military mobilisation before the House Foreign Affairs Committee. He stated, “This force deployment undermines the sovereignty of Cyprus and will only increase tensions in the region. President Erdoğan must reverse this course immediately.”
RM @RepGregoryMeeks: This deployment undermines Cyprus's sovereignty and will only serve to increase tensions in the region. President Erdogan must immediately reverse course.https://t.co/nQj4p8PbLm
— House Foreign Affairs Committee Dems (@HouseForeign) March 10, 2026
Also read: Turkey F-16 deployment in occupied Cyprus today
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