Cyprus is included in the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency's military sales programs, which allows the country to purchase military equipment directly from the US government.
The decision was made on January 15 after signing agreements to join three key programs.
As of 22:00 local time, Cyprus participates in the US Foreign Military Sales (FMS), Excess Defense Items (EDA) program and the US Military's "Title 10" security assistance provisions.
The FMS program provides Cyprus with the opportunity to purchase equipment directly from the US government. This solution reduces costs by bypassing the private companies that previously acted as intermediaries. It is expected that this model of cooperation will provide access to better equipment and training for the Cyprus National Guard, as well as increased opportunities to participate in joint exercises with the US Army.
The EDA program, which allows friendly countries to purchase surplus US military equipment, will be a tool for modernizing the Cypriot military. Such equipment is provided at a reduced cost or free of charge. By comparison, from 2013 to 2023, Greece made 423 purchases under the EDA, Israel made 2,436, and Türkiye made one.
Section 10 aims to strengthen Cyprus' defense capabilities and will allow the country to benefit from the latest technology and NATO standards.
The decision to join the US program is part of Cyprus' strategy to strengthen defense cooperation with Western partners. Previously, the country was forced to look for alternatives to Russian military equipment due to sanctions imposed in connection with the conflict in Ukraine.
Cyprus has been upgrading its defense infrastructure in recent months, purchasing French Mistral missiles as part of an EU financial aid package. This equipment will be compatible with equipment purchased through US programs.
These steps strengthen Cyprus's position as a defense partner of the West. According to Department of Defense officials, such agreements provide access to advanced technologies and allow the country to confidently cope with modern security challenges.
Source: cyprus-mail.com
