Situated just 184 kilometres (114 miles) from Beirut, Cyprus has historically played a pivotal role in evacuating foreign nationals from conflict zones in the Middle East and beyond. The island has also served as a key transit hub for delivering humanitarian aid, including to Gaza.
A team of experts from the 435th Contingency Response Group, based in Ramstein, Germany, is conducting an assessment at the airbase. The review focuses on improving the facility to support a broader range of U.S. air operations, with an emphasis on enhancing air traffic safety.
Given its proximity to the island's second-largest civilian airport, the base requires high-tech upgrades, including state-of-the-art radar systems, to ensure safe and independent operations for both civilian and military aircraft. "The Americans are very specific about safety and are seeking upgrades to further enhance the base's capabilities," the official, speaking anonymously, told the Associated Press.
Other proposed enhancements include expanding the base and its runway to accommodate larger transport and fighter aircraft, along with the construction of hardened shelters to protect air assets.
The initiative follows a recent U.S. Marine deployment to the base during escalating tensions in Lebanon last year. The Marines, equipped with V-22 Osprey aircraft, were on standby to evacuate U.S. citizens during Israel’s strikes against Hezbollah targets.
Deputy government spokesman Yannis Antoniou emphasised Thursday that any use of the base by foreign forces would require prior approval from the Cypriot government. He clarified that the airbase would not serve as a launchpad for offensive military operations.
"We are collaborating with U.S. forces because we believe this aligns with the vital interests of the Republic of Cyprus," Antoniou said. He added that the U.S. experts’ report will outline the upgrade costs and indicate what percentage the U.S. government might fund.
Military cooperation between Cyprus and the United States has significantly deepened in recent years, reflecting President Nikos Christodoulides’ commitment to solidify the nation’s "clear Western orientation."
This strengthening partnership was further demonstrated by a recent U.S. directive allowing Cyprus to purchase American arms and surplus military equipment. The Cypriot government hailed the move as a recognition of its reliability as a U.S. partner in the Eastern Mediterranean.
As Cyprus balances its unique geographic position with its geopolitical aspirations, the planned upgrades at Andreas Papandreou Air Base signal its growing strategic importance on the international stage.
(Source: Associated Press)
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