Naval exercise reissued south of Cyprus
A renewed indication of heightened Eastern Mediterranean activity emerged with the reissue by the Cyprus FIR of a naval exercise NOTAM (0100–0300Z) for 5 February, scheduled between 01:00 and 03:00 UTC. The exercise covers a maritime corridor south of Cyprus and again refers to “real tactical coordination” with the Nicosia Area Control Centre (Nicosia ACC).
What is NOTAM?
A NOTAM (Notice to Airmen – NOTAM or NoTAM) is an unclassified notice issued by an aviation authority to warn pilots of potential hazards along a flight route or at a specific location that could affect flight safety. It provides timely information on the establishment, condition or changes to aeronautical facilities, services, procedures or hazards, and is distributed via telecommunications to personnel and systems involved in flight operations.
NOTAMs are created and transmitted by government agencies and airport operators in line with Annex 15 (Aeronautical Information Services) of the International Civil Aviation Conference (CICA). The term NOTAM has been in common use since 4 April 1947, replacing the formal “Notice to Airmen”, and has evolved from simple printed notices into today’s highly automated global information system that ensures pilots receive critical safety updates efficiently.
US naval presence raises operational alert
Analyses circulating on social media link the specific NOTAMs with the presence of US warships, shaping a picture of increased operational readiness against the backdrop of developments involving Iran.
The exercise area includes the US destroyers USS Roosevelt (DDG-80) and USS Bulkeley (DDG-84), both equipped with the Aegis combat system. Analysts view these vessels as critical for ballistic missile defence missions as well as offensive capabilities, reinforcing perceptions of a particularly tense phase in the regional crisis and broader Eastern Mediterranean activity.
Defence Minister seeks to reassure
Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas said on Tuesday that the Republic of Cyprus closely monitors developments across the wider region, especially rumours of potential US intervention in Iran. He clarified that the American NOTAM issued for the Nicosia FIR forms part of an assessment of existing data and functions mainly as a pressure tool aimed at encouraging political dialogue with Tehran rather than military escalation.
So far, he added, authorities have received no specific information pointing to an immediate threat in the area. Palmas also confirmed ongoing communication and information-sharing with the British Bases and the United States, despite occasional gaps in updates. He stressed that any attack against the Bases, despite their special status, would have direct consequences for the Republic of Cyprus.
The minister concluded that Cyprus has the means and capabilities to respond to any threatening scenario, underlining that preparedness does not equate to escalation, even amid sustained Eastern Mediterranean activity.
Cyprus FIR has issued a maritime exercise NOTAM starting February 3rd in the annotated corridor. The NOTAM advises of “real time tactical coordination between the user and Nicosia ACC,” indicating potential outside party coordination.
— Faytuks Network (@FaytuksNetwork) January 29, 2026
Israel has also announced coinciding air… pic.twitter.com/uBOUsEWMf6
Also read: Trump: If no deal is reached with Iran, “bad things” will happen
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