Cyprus plays a significant role in training officials from the Middle East to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. According to foreign reports, the CYCLOPS centre, funded by the US and the EU, serves as a key facility where government officials from countries like Algeria and Iraq receive training. Although only in its third year of operation, the centre has already trained over 2,000 officials from 20 countries.
On the island, high-quality training and access to advanced detection technologies are provided. Experts from the US, particularly from laboratories focused on preventing the spread of dangerous weapons, are instrumental to the programme’s success.
The centre is equipped with advanced technology for detecting various types of threats, such as:
- Radioactive substances
- Chemical agents
- Biological agents
- Explosives
The report highlights that CYCLOPS adapts extremely well to emerging security threats. For example, there is a need for training in scenarios where small, easily accessible drones could be used to disseminate dangerous substances. The centre provides training and also showcases the latest global technologies to combat threats from weapons of mass destruction. “Cyprus is an ideal location for this training centre due to its proximity to the Middle East, offering educational opportunities that are hard to find in that region,” the report notes.
The centre plans to enhance its capabilities by adding a virtual reality system. This system will offer advanced training for situations involving biological, chemical, and radiological threats. Kevin Keller from the US State Department’s Export Control and Related Border Security programme considers this a significant development. Many have already expressed interest in this technology, even before its installation.
The CYCLOPS centre also plays a crucial role in preventing security threats. Although there have not yet been any significant incidents of weapons of mass destruction materials being seized, training border officials on these risks is vital. “This demonstrates that thorough border checks can prevent security issues. The training provided at the centre helps Cyprus’s neighbouring countries to protect their borders more effectively, thereby increasing population safety. This underscores the centre’s pivotal role in detecting and preventing threats from weapons of mass destruction,” the report states.
