Cyprus to Acquire Second Israeli Patrol Vessel by 2028
Cyprus will procure a second Saar 62 class patrol vessel from Israel to strengthen regional maritime security capabilities.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Military
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Cyprus plans to purchase a second Saar 62 class patrol vessel from Israel for approximately €150 million. The ship is expected to be delivered and operational by mid-2028.
Why it matters
The acquisition aims to bolster maritime patrol capacity and enhance response to security concerns throughout the Eastern Mediterranean. This government-to-government procurement mirrors the design of the existing vessel, Vice Admiral Andreas Ioannidis.
The procurement includes Rafael Advanced Defense Systems featuring SPIKE missile variants with range options between 8 km and 30 km. The project represents a €150 million investment in maritime defense hardware.
The players
Israel Shipyards
This entity is a major manufacturer of naval vessels and is currently constructing the new patrol ship for the Cypriot government.
Rafael Advanced Defense Systems
This company provides high-tech defense technologies including the missile variants and optical sensors integrated into the new vessel.
The details
The vessel, currently undergoing hull construction at Israel Shipyards, will be equipped with advanced electro-optical systems. This purchase follows an existing framework between Cyprus and Israel to modernize patrol fleets.
Timeline
The vessel is expected to be delivered and operational by mid-2028.
Political Context
The acquisition reflects a broader regional trend toward bilateral defense cooperation between Cyprus and Israel. Critics of such hardware spending often argue for the prioritization of diplomatic conflict resolution over military naval buildup.
This acquisition represents a significant long-term capital expenditure for Cyprus that could impact national defense budget allocations. Increased maritime patrol presence may result in more frequent monitoring of regional shipping routes for local commercial interests.
The takeaway
Nations in the Eastern Mediterranean are increasingly prioritizing high-tech naval assets to secure their maritime interests. Readers should monitor future defense contracts as countries continue to modernize their patrol capabilities.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest defense developments in the Military sector.
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