Nikos Dendias sent a new message regarding the protection of Cyprus by the “blue wings,” as Greece is acquiring the capability to conduct in-flight refueling of fighter jets for the first time.
“If Greece had had aircraft capable of in-flight refueling for our fighter jets in Cyprus in 1974, the invasion could not have taken place, and the invasion bridgehead could not have been maintained.”
Nikos Dendias – Greek Minister of National Defense
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
Following the outbreak of the crisis in the Middle East, Nikos Dendias repeatedly emphasized that “Cyprus is nearby.” After all, the “blue wings” remain on the island, and the Greek frigate ADRIAS is sailing in the waters of the Republic of Cyprus.
New Doctrine
The agreement to purchase 3+3 EMBRAER KC-390 aircraft is part of plans to restructure Greece’s defense doctrine, which extends to Cyprus—a country now included in the operational planning of the Hellenic Air Force.
The aerial refueling capability dramatically increases the operational range of the Greek F-16s, Rafales, and Mirages, as it doubles their time in the air.
NEMESIS Begins
The countdown is on for the start tomorrow of the multinational air and naval exercise NEMESIS-26, involving eight countries: Cyprus, Greece, France, the U.S., the United Kingdom, Israel, Italy, and Egypt.
Operations will take place south of our country within the Cypriot Exclusive Economic Zone until November 12, during which Athens may also issue a NAVTEX for the GSI, sending a strong message of multilateral cooperation and the protection of the region’s energy infrastructure.
The main objectives of the exercise are the security of offshore energy infrastructure and crisis management in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Meanwhile, Vasilis Palmas is in Paris, where he met with the French Minister of the Armed Forces and visited the EURONAVAL international naval defense exhibition.
Watch the report by Christoforos Nestoros:
