Defence Minister Nikos Dendias announced that Greece is sending two frigates and a pair of F-16 fighter jets to Cyprus following a second drone strike near the British base at Akrotiri. The Greek defence minister will travel to Cyprus tomorrow after speaking with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. A decision by the Government Council for Foreign Affairs and Defence (KYSEA) activates the unified Greece–Cyprus defence doctrine.

According to the Cypriot government spokesperson, two drones targeting the British base at Akrotiri were intercepted. At around noon on March 2, sirens sounded again in the area and fighter jets were scrambled.

Both British bases on the island, as well as Paphos airport, were evacuated. There was also heightened security activity at the U.S. Embassy in Nicosia.

A message sent to employees read: “There is an ongoing security threat. Please return home and remain indoors until further official notice. Stay away from windows and take cover behind or under solid, sturdy furniture. Please await further instructions.”

“Kimon”, “Centaur” and F-16s deployed

Dendias said one of the frigates being dispatched is the “Kimon,” while a second Hellenic Navy frigate will carry the anti-drone “Centaur” system. A pair of F-16 fighter jets is also being deployed to the Republic of Cyprus.

“Mitsotakis spoke earlier with President Christodoulides. I am in constant communication with my counterpart. Following the unprovoked attacks, I assured that Greece will contribute to Cyprus’ defence throughout the crisis. In line with the KYSEA decision, the frigate Kimon and a second frigate equipped with the ‘Centaur’ system are being sent immediately, along with a pair of F-16 fighter jets. For better coordination, I will travel to Cyprus tomorrow with the Chief of the Hellenic National Defence General Staff,” the defence minister said after a meeting at the ministry.

Preventive measures in Akrotiri area

Cyprus’ Interior Ministry announced precautionary measures in the Akrotiri area. Civil Defence has informed residents about the possibility of temporary accommodation at the Limassol KEN facility, where officials and volunteers are present to assist citizens.

Civil Defence teams remain on site in the Akrotiri municipal district to inform residents and help transport those wishing to move to temporary shelters. Patrols are also being conducted to provide assistance if needed.

If necessary, sirens will sound in affected areas and announcements will be broadcast via radio and television instructing residents to head to the nearest shelter. Shelters can be located via the “SafeCY” application or through the Civil Defence Operations Control Centre.

Where no nearby shelter is available, citizens are advised to remain indoors in secure areas such as underground parking spaces or rooms with solid walls. Trained neighbourhood wardens will also be deployed to assist residents.