In a quite provocative move, Turkey chose this timing, when the negotiations for the resolution of the Cyprus dispute are under way, to transfer two LCMs (Landing Craft Mechanized) – the previously named Ç-301 and Ç-303 – to the Naval Forces of the Turkish-Cypriot pseudo-state in Cyprus.

The LCMs, under the new names KKTCSG-301 and KKTCSG-303, were delivered by the Turkish Navy on 18th of January 2017.

It is clear that Turkey is trying to send a not very peaceful message to Greece and to the Republic of Cyprus, in an attempt to influence the negotiations that take place under the supervision of the UN.