Archive · 18 Sep 2025
Turkey Monitors Cyprus' Israeli Air Defence System Procurement
Cyprus is getting a new air defense system from Israel.
Turkey, which doesn't like Cyprus buying weapons, is keeping a close eye on it.
Cyprus says it needs the defenses because the island is split and under occupation.
Turkey is worried the new system will upset the peace and says it will protect the Turkish side of Cyprus.
The new system replaces an older one and the Cypriot side will not disclose any information to avoid conflict.
Cyprus has procured an Israeli air defense system, the Barak MX, to replace its older Russian-made systems.
Turkey is monitoring the procurement, expressing concern over potential disruption of balance in Cyprus.
Turkish officials stated they will take measures to protect the security of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
Cypriot officials have not disclosed procurement plans due to tensions with Turkey.
Cyprus' defense minister stated the country has a duty to ensure its defenses due to the occupation.
- Who
- Turkey and Cyprus
- What
- Turkey is monitoring Cyprus' procurement of an Israeli air defense system.
- When
- Cypriot media reported on deliveries in December and last week; Turkish official statement on Thursday.
- Where
- Cyprus, with focus on the northern region; Turkey
- Why
- Turkey is monitoring the situation due to the ongoing tensions, and wants to safeguard security on the island.
Cyprus
Turkey
Procurement of Defense Systems
Cyprus
Cyprus views it as necessary for defense, due to occupation and lack of political solution.
Turkey
Turkey views it as disruptive and a threat to peace, and has expressed its intent to safeguard security.
- Event
- Cyprus procuring an Israeli air defense system
- System
- Barak MX anti-aircraft system
- Previous System
- Russian-made Tor M1
- Turkish Stance
- Monitoring the situation, will act to safeguard security in northern Cyprus
- Cypriot Stance
- Duty to ensure defenses due to ongoing occupation
- Relationship
- Cyprus has close relations with Israel; Turkey is critical of Israel