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According to a report by Kathimerini reporter Yiannis Ioannou, the ties between the United States and Cyprus continue to grow stronger, now making a practical impact on the field. The latest development comes in the form of cutting-edge American-made small arms, which will enhance the capabilities of both the National Guard and the Cyprus Police.
This follows the lifting of the longstanding US arms embargo on the Republic of Cyprus, a decision that not only opens the door for large-scale weapons systems but also for individual firearms crucial to the everyday operational needs of Cypriot security forces.
At the beginning of 2024, Cyprus finalized an agreement to acquire state-of-the-art special operations rifles. After careful evaluation, the Ministry of Defence selected the M5 Enhanced Carbine, produced by Colt Defence. This modernized version of the standard-issue M4 rifle used by US special forces marks a significant upgrade for Cyprus’ elite units.
Cutting-Edge Gear for Special Forces
The newly acquired M5 rifles and their advanced accessories—including optics, night sights, and other tactical enhancements—are already being put to use. The Underwater Disaster Unit of the National Guard’s Naval Command and the Police’s Motorized Rapid Response Unit, specifically the Special Anti-Terrorist Unit, have both integrated the rifles into their operations.
Photos from recent training exercises reveal these units wielding the M5 carbines, and initial feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Sources within the National Guard describe the new weapons platform as a major step forward, enhancing performance and effectiveness during missions. This successful rollout paves the way for potential future purchases of additional US-made equipment and accessories.
Member of the Cyprus' anti-terrorism unit during a National Guard exercise carrying an M5 carbine.
A Symbol of Growing Cooperation
This arms deal is more than just an equipment upgrade; it’s a clear symbol of the strengthening partnership between Cyprus and the United States. The lifting of the embargo and the subsequent collaboration reflect deepening trust and shared security interests. Both nations stand to benefit from enhanced operational readiness and closer military cooperation.
The new M5 carbines represent just the beginning of what could be a broader range of advanced equipment acquisitions. As the US and Cyprus continue to work together, this relationship is set to play an increasingly important role in regional security and stability.
The Republic of Cyprus has acquired M5 carbines in the short-barrel version with an 11.5-inch barrel (CM-556-11H-M5A), ideally suited for the needs of the Cyprus Rapid Response and Anti-terrorist units. This version has a length of 79.38 cm with the stock fully extended and 71.12 cm when collapsed, with an unloaded weight of 2.86 kg. Its rate of fire ranges between 700-950 rounds per minute. The weapon is waterproof, and since 2017, the M5 has been successfully exported to many countries worldwide, establishing it as a premier special operations weapon. Source: Colt Arms.
