Aphrodite shield: Cyprus and UK join forces for air defense training

The air defence drill "Aphrodite Shield" was carried out on Tuesday, with the participation of Air Defence Units of the Cyprus Air Command and aircraft of the Royal Air Force of the United Kingdom.

According to a Defence Ministry press release, the purpose of the drill, which was planned and coordinated by the Cyprus Air Command and the Royal Air Force, was to train National Guard air defence personnel in air force deployment tactics, to increase operational readiness and the level of standardisation in design and conducting air operations.

During the exercise, the air defence system was activated as well as the auto protection system of the National Guard facilities and its performance was evaluated in realistic conditions facing modern fighter aircraft. In addition, personnel practised tactical weapons control procedures and information transmission, as well as air defence procedures.

The drill, which is part of the Bilateral Defence Cooperation Program between the armed forces of the Republic of Cyprus and the UK, is particularly beneficial, as it provides the opportunity for the personnel to train together with UK units thus promoting interoperability and the development of relations in the field of aviation cooperation, the Defence Ministry's press release says.