NICOSIA, Cyprus — U.S. Air Force specialists are currently evaluating strategies to enhance Cyprus’ main air base for future humanitarian missions in the Middle Eastern region, according to a representative from the Cypriot government.
Positioned a mere 184 kilometers (114 miles) from Beirut, the capital of Lebanon, Cyprus has previously acted as a transit hub, facilitating the repatriation of foreign citizens fleeing conflict from various areas, in addition to providing a route for humanitarian aid destined for Gaza.
Members of the 435th Contingency Response Group, based in Ramstein, Germany, will be at Andreas Papandreou Air Force Base for several days to determine the enhancements necessary to support a diverse range of U.S. air resources and other military units.
A primary focus is ensuring the safety of air traffic both within the base and its surroundings, as it is located next to the island’s second-largest civilian airport. Its strategic position allows for a seamless transfer of evacuees onto commercial flights at the neighboring airport for their return home.
The official shared this information under the condition of anonymity, not having the authority to discuss the expert visit publicly.
To improve air traffic safety, modernization efforts will include the installation of advanced systems, such as cutting-edge radar technology, which would facilitate the safe, independent operation of both military and civilian aircraft at greater distances.
“The U.S. is placing a significant emphasis on safety and is proposing upgrades to enhance the overall safety of the base,” the official remarked.
Further upgrades are anticipated, including the expansion of the base facilities and runway to accommodate a greater number of transport and combat aircraft. Plans also include the construction of fortified shelters to safeguard these air assets.
The Cypriot government has consented to this assessment following the recent deployment of a contingent of U.S. Marines at the base. The Marines, equipped with V-22 Osprey military transport and cargo planes, were on standby for a rapid evacuation of American citizens amid military actions targeting Hezbollah in Lebanon late last year.
Deputy government spokesperson Yannis Antoniou stated that any deployment of U.S. or allied forces at the base will necessitate prior approval from the Cypriot authorities. He underlined that the air base would not be utilized for launching military strikes against targets in the region.
“Our collaboration with U.S. forces underscores our commitment to the vital interests of the Republic of Cyprus,” Antoniou articulated, adding that the report from the U.S. Air Force experts would provide an assessment of the costs involved in the upgrades, along with information on how much the U.S. government is willing to finance.
In recent years, bilateral relations between Cyprus, as a member of the European Union, and the United States, particularly regarding military collaborations, have notably strengthened. This improvement comes in the wake of Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides’ vows to reinforce the country’s clear alignment with Western interests.
A recent directive from former President Joe Biden highlighted these growing ties, permitting Cyprus to procure arms from the U.S. government and access surplus military equipment.
The Cypriot administration characterized this development as a significant recognition of its reliability as a partner to the United States in the region.
