Yiannis Ioannou
The Republic of Cyprus’ formal accession to the U.S. Foreign Military Sales programs, Excess Defense Articles, and Title 10 security assistance programs marks a significant milestone in the strategic strengthening of relations between Nicosia and Washington. This move, which began gaining momentum after the 2020-2021 period, underscores a major shift in defense and security collaboration. Notably, it effectively lifts the arms sales embargo imposed by the United States on Cyprus in 1987.
According to an article by Kathimerini's Yiannis Ioannou, this marks the closure of a 38-year historical cycle and opens a new chapter for the Cypriot National Guard (NG), offering a fresh range of potential arms options. These options could either come directly from the U.S. or through third countries, thanks to the widespread export of U.S. military hardware over time.
The Importance of the Decision
The National Guard has had a unique position institutionally since 1964, particularly after the Turkish invasion and occupation of Cyprus in 1974. It has always been outside of NATO, with its armament needs largely outside the Euro-Atlantic and NATO models. Since Cyprus’ EU accession in 2004, the NG has sought military modernization, relying heavily on conscription to maintain its operational strength.
Now, with Cyprus joining these three U.S. programs, the NG is poised for a significant modernization, aligning its forces more closely with NATO standards. Sources familiar with the issue emphasize that this shift opens "infinite possibilities" and "options" for Cyprus, particularly in strengthening the core of any national army—the foot soldier. One key component of this modernization effort comes from the U.S.’s provision of Excess Defense Articles (EDA), or surplus military equipment, which has historically been instrumental in modernizing national armies across Europe since the post-war period.
It’s important to clarify that while this development is significant, it does not mean Cyprus will suddenly acquire advanced capabilities in areas like naval or air power, or strategic weapons such as missile systems. The U.S. surplus does not include these types of military hardware, and Cyprus will not become a regional military superpower overnight.
A New Era for the National Guard
The acquisition value of U.S. military surplus, which totals tens of billions of dollars annually, provides countries considered strategic partners—like Cyprus—with numerous defense systems. These could include non-lethal equipment such as helmets, anti-ballistic protection, and modern vehicles. Such items are particularly crucial for the National Guard, given the outdated inventory it currently operates with.
Thanks to this new collaboration, the National Guard is expected to make significant strides in its modernization efforts over the coming years. At the strategic level, Cyprus could:
- Accelerate NATO standardization: Cyprus will likely move more swiftly to adopt NATO standardization processes, as seen in over 1,300 agreements within the EU since 2007, allowing closer Euro-Atlantic cooperation.
- Modernize individual armament: The NG could begin transitioning its reserve forces to the NATO-standard 5.56x45mm caliber ammunition, replacing the outdated 7.62x51mm caliber, which has been in use since 1957.
- Upgrade infantry weapons: The entire inventory of individual infantry armament could be updated with modern weapons and sights, helping to phase out older models like the G3, Vz. 58, and HK11. This surplus could also be marketed internationally, becoming a tool of military diplomacy outside the EU.
- Create future synergies: By participating in U.S. arms programs and training, the National Guard could develop closer strategic ties with the U.S. and potentially collaborate with Cyprus’ own emerging domestic military industry.
This shift represents more than just an arms deal; it is a clear signal of Cyprus’ growing role as a critical non-NATO ally in the Eastern Mediterranean. As the National Guard modernizes, this partnership with the U.S. is expected to further enhance Cyprus’ defense capabilities and its strategic position in the region.
*This article was translated and summarized from its Greek original
