In response to the reinforcement of defense in Southern Cyprus by Greece and some European countries due to the Iran conflict, Turkey deployed F-16 fighter jets and additional air defense systems to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) for the first time in 28 years.
“In light of recent developments in our region, six F-16 fighter aircraft and air defense systems have been deployed to the TRNC as of today. Additional measures will continue to be taken based on further developments if deemed necessary,” the Defense Ministry said on March 9.
The U.K. base RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus was targeted by two Iranian-made Shahed kamikaze drones on March 2, causing minor damage. After the attack, Greece deployed four F-16s and two frigates, Germany deployed one frigate, France deployed one frigate and the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier, and the U.K. deployed two Wildcat helicopters and the HMS Dragon destroyer to Cyprus. Italy and Spain also announced that they would deploy one frigate each.
During the Aegean crisis between the two countries in June 1998, Ankara had also responded to Greece’s deployment of fighter jets to Paphos Air Base by sending six F-16s to Geçitkale Air Base.
TURKISH MILITARY PRESENCE IN CYPRUS
Approximately 40,000 Turkish troops are stationed on the island. The Defense Ministry has not disclosed which air defense systems are deployed, but about two months ago, Simerini from Greece reported that Turkey installed powerful radar stations and Hisar short and mid-range air defense systems on the island.
The TRNC Foreign Ministry said the deployments were a response to Southern Cypriot armament that “threaten to alter the delicate balance in the region and are making our island a target in terms of security in the Eastern Mediterranean.”
