UK government reinforces security at RAF Akrotiri following drone attack

Following a drone attack on RAF Akrotiri on March 1, British officials met with the National Federation of Cypriots and Member of Parliament Bambos Charalambous to address public safety concerns. Minister for Europe Stephen Doughty confirmed that the protection of British personnel, families, and Cypriot residents remains a top priority for the UK government. To bolster defenses, the UK has reinforced counter-drone and anti-missile capabilities at the base. Recent deployments include Wildcat and Merlin helicopters, with the arrival of the destroyer HMS Dragon expected shortly. The UK government is maintaining constant communication with President Nikos Christodoulides and senior Cypriot officials regarding regional security. Furthermore, international naval and air assets from Greece, France, Italy, Germany, Spain, and the Netherlands have maintained a presence in the area. Official advice for British nationals in Cyprus is to follow the instructions of local authorities, while civilian flights continue to operate normally at Paphos and Larnaca airports. The UK is also working to improve real-time information sharing with residents living near the Sovereign Base Areas.