Israel to supply Cyprus with new offshore patrol vessel equipped with Rafael systems

Israel and Cyprus have expanded their defense cooperation in recent years, including naval security, military exercises, and defense procurement.

Israel and Cyprus signed an agreement on Monday for the acquisition of a new offshore patrol vessel (OPV) equipped with advanced Israeli naval systems, the Israeli Defense Ministry announced.

It was signed in Cyprus by Defense Ministry Director General Maj.-Gen. (res.) Amir Baram and Stelios Kountouris, acting permanent secretary of the Cyprus Defense Ministry.

According to the Israeli Defense Ministry, the deal was led by its International Defense Cooperation Directorate (SIBAT) and the Cypriot Defense Ministry's Armaments & Defense Capabilities Development Directorate.

"Israel will supply Cyprus with a new patrol vessel built by Israel Shipyards and fitted with a range of Rafael naval systems," the ministry said. "In parallel, the systems aboard Cyprus's existing Israel Shipyards-built patrol vessel will be upgraded.”

The signing ceremony was attended by Head of SIBAT Brig.-Gen. (res.) Yair Kulas, Israeli Ambassador to Cyprus Shuli Davidovich, Israel Shipyards CEO Eitan Zucker, and Rafael's Head of Naval Warfare Systems Directorate Ran Tavor.

"This agreement marks another important step in strengthening the operational capabilities of the Cyprus Naval Command and enhancing its capacity to respond to maritime security challenges," the ministry said.

"The new OPV, alongside the upgraded OPV IOANNIDES, will support expanded patrol, surveillance, and search-and-rescue missions."

The ministry added that the agreement reflected the two countries' commitment to regional stability.

Israel and Cyprus have expanded their defense cooperation in recent years, including naval security, military exercises, and defense procurement. Cyprus previously acquired the OPV Ioannides from Israel Shipyards, providing a foundation for the latest agreement, which includes upgrades to the existing vessel.

The two countries also cooperate with Greece on regional security matters, including exercises and military coordination in the eastern Mediterranean.

Cyprus received its first Israeli-built offshore patrol vessel, Commodore Andreas Ioannides, in 2018. The vessel was equipped with Rafael Typhoon naval weapon stations. Cyprus has also acquired Israeli defense equipment including the Barak MX air-defense system and Spike LR2 anti-tank missiles, according to a report by Cyprus Mail.

The value of the new naval agreement was not disclosed in the ministry's statement, although Calcalist previously reported that the proposed package was worth approximately $100 million.