Greek Cyprus intends to use the EU's SAFE programme as an opportunity to renew its light armoured vehicle fleet, entering talks with France for multiple types.
According to La Tribune, Greek Cyprus is in talks with France to acquire 80 Griffon 6x6 armoured personnel carriers and 100 Serval 4x4 tactical wheeled vehicles from KNDS. The report from the French news platform adds that some of these vehicles are also being considered for an anti-tank role with France's new MBDA's AKERON MP medium-range ATGM.
In addition to new platforms, the negotiation includes the modernisation of VAB armoured vehicles by Arquus.
Greek Cyprus intends to utilise the SAFE defence financing and coordination programme as an economic support to this large-scale acquisition relative to its armed force size. This move towards SAFE is rooted in the alignment of Greek Cyprus with European countries through Greece, which has also paved the way for other notable acquisitions, such as H145M armed helicopters replacing Russian-made Mi-35 Hind attack helicopters, as well as Mistral 3 MANPADS.
Author: Kaan Azman
Editor: Özgür Ekşi
