NICOSIA, Cyprus — U.S. Air Force specialists are currently evaluating options to enhance the capabilities of Cyprus’ main air base, converting it into a key staging area for humanitarian missions in future Middle Eastern operations, according to a Cypriot official’s statement on Thursday.
Cyprus, situated just 184 kilometers (114 miles) from Beirut, Lebanon, has frequently served as a vital transit point for the repatriation of individuals escaping conflict areas in the Middle East and beyond. Additionally, it has aided in transporting humanitarian assistance to Gaza during times of crisis.
Members of the 435th Contingency Response Group, based in Ramstein, Germany, will be on-site at the Andreas Papandreou Air Force Base for several days to evaluate the necessary upgrades that would allow for a variety of U.S. military aircraft and international forces to operate effectively from the location.
One prominent concern is enhancing air traffic safety around the base, which is adjacent to the island’s second-largest civilian airport. This strategic positioning facilitates the smooth transfer of evacuees onto commercial flights at the nearby airport for their journeys back home.
The official requested anonymity because they are not permitted to disclose details regarding the visiting experts to the public.
To improve air traffic safety, the base would require advanced high-tech systems, such as cutting-edge radar installations, to ensure secure operation for both civilian and military flights, keeping them at safe distances from one another.
“The Americans have strict requirements regarding safety and are looking to introduce upgrades that will enhance the base’s security,” stated the official.
Furthermore, crucial enhancements would involve expanding the base infrastructure and extending the runway to support increased traffic from transport and fighter aircraft. Plans also include constructing fortified shelters to protect these aircraft during operations.
The assessment of these upgrades was sanctioned by the Cypriot government following the recent stationing of a contingent of U.S. Marines at the base. The Marines, equipped with V-22 Osprey military transport aircraft, were prepared for a rapid evacuation of U.S. citizens from Lebanon amid heightened tensions during Israel’s military actions against Hezbollah targets last year.
Deputy government spokesman Yannis Antoniou remarked on state media that any utilization of the air base by U.S. or allied forces would require prior consent from the Cypriot government. He emphasized that the base would not serve as a forward operating base for military strikes against regional targets.
“We are interested in collaborating with U.S. Forces, as we believe it serves the critical interests of the Republic of Cyprus,” Antoniou mentioned, noting that the USAF’s report will include cost estimates for the upgrades and which portion the U.S. government might finance.
In recent years, bilateral relations between Cyprus, a member of the European Union, and the U.S. have significantly strengthened, particularly regarding military partnerships. This shift follows a commitment from Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides to underscore the nation’s “clear Western orientation.”
Last week, former President Joe Biden issued a directive allowing Cyprus to procure arms and surplus military equipment from the U.S. government, signifying a deeper recognition of Cyprus as a reliable partner for the United States in the region.
