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The Cypriot Ministry of Defense today showcased two cutting-edge defense systems developed under its ATHENA research and innovation program: THISEAS, a drone-based situational awareness platform, and DroneEYE, a portable and vehicle-mounted anti-drone system.
The demonstrations took place at the Stavros Stylianidis Military Camp, attended by Defense Minister Vasilis Palmas, senior National Guard officers, and representatives of local defense companies and universities. Both projects are funded largely by the Ministry, which covered 85% of their €450,000 costs.
THISEAS integrates radio-emission detection technology and high-resolution cameras into quadcopter drones, providing real-time battlefield intelligence. Data collected is transmitted to a virtual reality command center, enhancing rapid decision-making and situational awareness.
DroneEYE is designed to detect, track, and neutralize unauthorized drones through electronic interference, forcing them to land. The portable system reaches 1.5 km and operates across 750–6000 MHz frequencies, with up to one hour of autonomy. Officials said the system may eventually incorporate “hard kill” capabilities.
“These programs mark the beginning of building a national research and innovation ecosystem that strengthens the technological independence of Cyprus,” Minister Palmas said, adding that follow-up initiatives will be announced in 2026.
The projects involve collaborations between local companies, universities, and research centers, highlighting Cyprus’s efforts to foster domestic dual-use defense technology. Dynamic demonstrations showed drones detecting and classifying targets in real time, as well as anti-drone systems successfully disrupting UAV flights.
Air Commodore (Ret.) Dr. Panagiotis Chatzipavlis, director of defense innovation at the Ministry, emphasized that ATHENA is the country’s first domestic dual-use innovation action, and that Cypriot entities are being positioned for participation in European defense programs and international exhibitions.
The demonstration marks a milestone for Cyprus’s defense industry, combining research, innovation, and practical field applications while signaling the country’s growing focus on technological self-reliance.
With information from Defence Redefined Cyprus.
