Cyprus in negotiations with France for armored vehicle procurement

The Republic of Cyprus is currently in advanced negotiations with France to acquire over 150 armored vehicles. According to reports from the French publication La Tribune, the potential order includes approximately 80 Griffon and 100 Serval vehicles from the companies KNDS and Arquus. The agreement may also involve upgrading part of the existing National Guard fleet, specifically 80 VAB armored vehicles. Some of the new units could be equipped with Akeron MP anti-tank missiles produced by MBDA. The transaction is intended to be processed through the French General Directorate of Armaments (DGA) using a model similar to the American Foreign Military Sales. Financing is expected to be facilitated through the European Union's SAFE program, which offers loans on favorable terms to enhance defense capabilities. No final contract has been signed yet, and the negotiations remain ongoing. This initiative aligns with Cyprus's broader efforts to modernize its military equipment through European cooperation.