Newsroom
For the first time, Cyprus is taking steps toward building its own defense equipment on the island, rather than relying entirely on imports.
Greek defense company M Technologies, the defense arm of Metlen, and Cypriot company Heutris have signed an agreement to create a joint venture in Cyprus that will develop and produce defense systems locally.
The move marks a major step for Cyprus’ defense industry, with plans to create new production capabilities, transfer specialized knowledge, and develop local expertise in a sector that has traditionally been dominated by larger countries.
As part of the partnership, the companies will move forward with the production of military vehicles under the European Union’s SAFE program while also exploring further projects involving defense equipment production, integration, maintenance, and support.
What does this mean for Cyprus?
For the average person, defense manufacturing may sound like something reserved for major powers with huge military industries.
But the companies involved say the project could bring new opportunities to Cyprus by creating specialized jobs, training local workers, and strengthening the island’s industrial base.
Instead of simply buying defense equipment from abroad, Cyprus could gradually develop the ability to build, maintain, and support certain systems locally.
The agreement includes the transfer of know-how from M Technologies, which has experience in major international defense programs, to help develop new skills and capabilities within Cyprus.
A partnership between two experienced players
M Technologies has participated in major defense projects, including the production and support of Patriot missile systems, Leopard tanks, and parts of Greece’s FDI HN (Belharra) frigates, while maintaining partnerships with major international defense companies.
Heutris, meanwhile, is one of Cyprus’ established defense industry companies, with more than 45 years of experience and involvement in defense, government, and industrial projects.
The two companies say their goal is to establish a long-term industrial presence in Cyprus and create a production base that could serve not only the island but also the wider region.
