The lifting of the US arms embargo on Cyprus, the build-up of military forces on the island to safeguard Israel, recent discussions about Cyprus’s application to join NATO, and now, the arrival of the “Iron Dome” variation are being perceived by Turkey as further developments raising suspicion over the region’s geopolitics.
Turkish media are extensively covering the arrival of the first batch of Israel’s “Iron Dome-type” air defence system in Cyprus, citing the Cypriot television network Sigma TV.
The Turkish newspaper Milliyet reproduced Sigma TV’s report, which stated that “absolutely reliable and confirmed information indicates that the first batch of the Iron Dome-type air defence system has arrived in Cyprus and has been delivered to the Greek Cypriot National Guard (RMMO). The report also noted that the system has been placed in operational readiness.”
Milliyet commented that the system is part of a broader effort to bolster the defence capabilities of the Republic of Cyprus.
Strengthening Cyprus’s defence
According to Sigma TV, which Milliyet references, the Republic of Cyprus has framed the acquisition of the Iron Dome variation as part of modernisation efforts to replace outdated Russian-made TOR and BUK air defence systems. The newspaper noted that the extended decision by the US to lift its arms embargo on Cyprus and the deepening military cooperation with Western countries have amplified Cyprus’s military procurements.
It is also reported that additional batches of the system are expected to arrive in the coming days, forming a new anti-aircraft umbrella for Cyprus. Once fully installed, the system will be capable of covering a wide range of threats and intercepting enemy aircraft, missiles, and projectiles.
Connection to Greece’s potential Iron Dome
The pro-government Turkish newspaper drew attention to claims from Greek Cypriot media that the new air defence system in the Republic of Cyprus would be fully compatible with the Iron Dome system Greece plans to acquire from Israel.
Milliyet highlighted that Cyprus is undergoing intense military activity, including the acquisition of attack helicopters from France and plans to replace Russian T-80 tanks. The paper noted that military cooperation with Western countries and the lifting of the US arms embargo have reinforced the defence strategy of the Republic of Cyprus.
Reactions from the Turkish Cypriot side
The move has sparked strong reactions from the Turkish Cypriot administration, accusing the Republic of Cyprus of “heightening tensions” in the region. Officials stated, “Joint exercises with Israel and the testing of systems against F-16 fighter jets reveal that the South aims not only for defence but also for regional dominance. These actions contradict the peace rhetoric of the Greek Cypriot side and escalate tensions in the area.”
Additional acquisitions
According to Milliyet, Cyprus is also set to receive French attack helicopters soon, while the process for acquiring new battle tanks to replace Russian T-80 models is underway.
Cyprus’s Iron Dome in the Turkish spotlight
Turkish newspapers have reacted with varying tones and analyses to the installation of Israel’s Iron Dome-type air defence system in Cyprus, raising pointed concerns over regional power balances and the Republic of Cyprus’s strategic ambitions.
Sözcü: “Greece and Southern Cyprus arming the Aegean and Mediterranean with Israel’s Iron Dome”
Sözcü highlighted the coordinated defence strategies of Greece and Cyprus, underlining their collaboration with Israel. “Southern Cyprus has started installing the Iron Dome system purchased from Israel. Furthermore, it is noted that it will be fully compatible with the Iron Dome system that Greece is developing in collaboration with Israel.”
Duvar: “Israeli defence system installed: ‘Iron Dome’ in Southern Cyprus”
Duvar, adopting a more neutral tone, cited Sigma TV, noting the arrival and installation of the system. “Sigma TV, broadcasting in Cyprus, reported that the first components of the Israeli-made air defence system, similar to the Iron Dome, have been installed in Southern Cyprus.”
Karar: “Israeli defence shield for the Republic of Cyprus: A new version of the Iron Dome deployed on the island”
Karar emphasised the technological advancements of the system and its strategic importance while highlighting the deepening Cyprus-Israel cooperation.
Also read: “Is Cyprus the new Incirlik?” – Concern and fear in Turkey
Source: Maria Zacharaki
