Cyprus and Israel have signed a defence deal for a new offshore patrol vessel (OPV) equipped with advanced naval systems and upgrades to an existing Cypriot vessel.
The agreement was signed on Monday, October 26, 2026, during a ceremony in Cyprus, according to Israel’s Ministry of Defence.
Under the deal, Israeli shipbuilder Israel Shipyards will construct the new patrol vessel, while Rafael Advanced Defense Systems will supply its naval systems.
The agreement was signed by retired Major General Amir Baram, director general of Israel’s Ministry of Defence, and Stelios Kountouris, deputy director general of Cyprus’ Ministry of Defence.
Existing Ioannides patrol vessel to be upgraded
The agreement also provides for upgrades to the systems of the existing offshore patrol vessel Ioannides, which was built by Israel Shipyards.
Israel’s Ministry of Defence said the new vessel, together with the upgraded Ioannides, would strengthen the operational capabilities of the National Guard’s Naval Command.
The two vessels are expected to support a wider range of patrol, surveillance, search and rescue missions.
The Israeli ministry described the agreement as another step towards strengthening defence cooperation between the two countries and promoting regional stability.
Officials attend signing ceremony
The ceremony was attended by Yair Kulas, retired brigadier general and head of Israel’s International Defence Cooperation Directorate (SIBAT), and Israel’s ambassador to Cyprus, Shuli Davidovich.
Also present were Israel Shipyards chief executive Eitan Zucker and Ran Tavor, head of Rafael’s Naval Systems Directorate.
The announcement did not disclose the value of the agreement, the precise equipment planned for the new vessel or its expected delivery date.
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