EU programme offers new opportunities
Cyprus could significantly strengthen its defence industry through participation in the European Union’s SAFE defence programme, according to analysis examining how the initiative could help reduce dependence on foreign military suppliers.
The Security Action for Europe (SAFE) programme forms part of the EU’s wider effort to boost Europe’s defence capabilities by encouraging joint procurement, increasing production capacity, and supporting investment in the European defence industry.
For countries such as Cyprus and Greece, the initiative could provide an opportunity to expand domestic defence manufacturing while improving long-term strategic autonomy.
Growing defence gap
The analysis points to the widening gap between Turkey’s defence industry and those of Greece and Cyprus.
Turkey has significantly expanded its domestic defence production over the past two decades, achieving a high degree of self-sufficiency across a broad range of military systems while becoming a major exporter of defence equipment.
By comparison, Cyprus remains heavily dependent on imported defence systems, with only limited domestic production capabilities.
The article argues that participation in SAFE could help Cyprus gradually increase its defence-industrial capacity through European cooperation and investment.
What is SAFE?
SAFE is the European Union’s new €150 billion defence financing instrument, designed to strengthen the bloc’s defence industrial base and encourage member states to procure military equipment jointly.
The programme aims to reduce Europe’s dependence on non-EU suppliers while improving interoperability between European armed forces and supporting the development of strategic defence technologies.
Funding is expected to help participating countries invest in defence manufacturing, research, production and procurement projects carried out in cooperation with other European partners.
Potential benefits for Cyprus
For Cyprus, participation in SAFE could create opportunities beyond military procurement.
Supporters of the programme argue it could encourage investment in local defence industries, create specialised jobs, strengthen technological expertise and improve maintenance and production capabilities within the country.
While any long-term impact will depend on future investment decisions and implementation, SAFE is widely viewed as one of the European Union’s most ambitious defence initiatives in recent years.
Also read: Cyprus talks eye new UN framework – Proposal for a “loose” federation
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