France sends weapons as Cyprus faces regional threats

France is sending weapons to Cyprus following a drone strike on the British military base at RAF Akrotiri, Cyprus News Agency reports.

Paris plans to deploy missile defense and counter-drone systems, along with a frigate, with a second vessel expected soon.

On March 2, UK Defence Secretary John Healey said the RAF base in Akrotiri had been targeted by drones. In response, the British military placed a Type 45 destroyer on heightened alert.

President of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides stated that the drone involved was a “Shahed”-type unmanned aerial vehicle, which he said belongs to Iran.

Cyprus is also stepping up security and hosting an expanding international military presence as the US-Israeli conflict with Iran entered its fourth day on March 3, raising fears of a broader regional war close to the island.

Two pairs of Greek F-16 fighter jets have arrived in Cyprus, while Greek naval frigates operate in nearby waters. Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias is expected on the island for high-level consultations amid intensifying regional tensions.

France’s deployment follows direct contacts between President Christodoulides and Emmanuel Macron. Germany is also expected to approve the deployment of a frigate after a request from Nicosia, signaling growing European coordination centered around the island.

By Vafa Guliyeva