Greece and Cyprus in talks to transfer Leopard 1 A5 tanks

The Greek Ministry of National Defence and the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Cyprus are in advanced negotiations regarding the transfer of Leopard 1 A5 battle tanks to the Cyprus National Guard. This initiative is coordinated by General Dimitrios Choupis, Chief of the Hellenic National Defence General Staff, and Lieutenant General Emmanouil Theodorou, Chief of the Cyprus National Guard General Staff. The move aims to address operational challenges related to the maintenance of existing Russian-made T-80 tanks currently in service. Previous discussions regarding the acquisition of Israeli Merkava tanks were halted due to prohibitive delivery timelines caused by the conflict in the Middle East. If the deal proceeds, the Leopard tanks will undergo significant upgrades, including modern targeting, improved armor, and enhanced communication and command systems. The process is being monitored by Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Defence Minister Nikos Dendias to ensure national combat readiness.