Israel to supply Cyprus with a new offshore patrol vessel as part of defense deal; existing ships to be upgraded

Israel’s Ministry of Defense (IMOD) and the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Cyprus signed an agreement on Monday under which Israel will supply Cyprus with a new offshore patrol vessel (OPV) equipped with advanced naval systems, the Israeli ministry said in a statement. The signing ceremony was held in Cyprus.

The deal was led by IMOD’s International Defense Cooperation Directorate, known as SIBAT, and by the Armaments and Defence Capabilities Development Directorate of the Cypriot ministry. The agreement was signed by IMOD Director General Maj. Gen. (Res.) Amir Baram and his Cypriot counterpart, Stelios Kountouris, acting permanent secretary of the Cyprus Ministry of Defence.

Under the agreement, Israel will supply Cyprus with a new patrol vessel built by Israel Shipyards and fitted with a range of naval systems made by Rafael. In parallel, the systems aboard Cyprus’s existing patrol vessel, which was also built by Israel Shipyards, will be upgraded.

SIBAT head Brig. Gen. (Res.) Yair Kulas was present at the signing. Also attending the ceremony were Israel’s ambassador to Cyprus, Shuli Davidovich; Israel Shipyards CEO Eitan Zucker; Ran Tavor, head of Rafael’s Naval Warfare Systems Directorate; and other senior officials.

The Israeli ministry described the agreement as “another important step in strengthening the operational capabilities of the Cyprus Naval Command and enhancing its capacity to respond to maritime security challenges.” It said the new vessel, together with the upgraded OPV IOANNIDES, will support expanded patrol, surveillance and search-and-rescue missions.

“By strengthening their capabilities and deepening their partnership, the two countries reaffirm their commitment to regional stability,” the ministry said.