Israel Shipyards and Rafael reportedly nearing €150 million Cyprus naval deal
A reported €150 million agreement would supply Cyprus with Israeli vessels and weapons, while defence sources confirm a patrol vessel purchase agreement.
Nicosia, Cyprus. Israel Shipyards and Rafael are reportedly approaching a €150 million deal to provide Cyprus with naval vessels and weapons systems, potentially further strengthening defence ties between Cyprus and Israel.
Reported agreement awaits public confirmation
Israeli financial newspaper Calcalist reported on Tuesday that signing was anticipated within weeks, after talks involving both countries’ defence ministries. Under the proposed arrangement, Israel Shipyards would provide vessels for the naval command of the National Guard, carrying weapon systems produced by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems.
The negotiations are reportedly taking place between the two governments. Neither country’s defence ministry has publicly verified the reported procurement.
However, sources at the defence ministry told the Cyprus Mail that an agreement covering the purchase of an Israeli patrol vessel was in place. They also described the established defence cooperation between Cyprus and Israel as widely known.
According to Calcalist, both Israeli companies declined to comment. Its report gave no details about how many vessels would be supplied, their types, planned weapons or delivery timetable.
Earlier patrol vessel purchase
The reported deal would extend Cyprus’ existing relationship with Israel Shipyards, which supplied the Republic’s first patrol vessel.
The Cyprus Mail reported in September 2017 that Christophoros Fokaides, defence minister at the time, attended the launch in Haifa. During that visit, he discussed broader military cooperation with Avigdor Lieberman, his Israeli counterpart.
The vessel reached Cyprus in January 2018, with commissioning taking place later that same month.
Maritime security role
The 62-metre vessel reportedly cost approximately €44 million. Its intended roles included improving patrol capabilities within Cyprus’ exclusive economic zone, safeguarding offshore energy facilities and supporting maritime security across the region.
Its equipment includes radar, command-and-control systems and two naval weapon stations of Rafael’s Typhoon model.
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