Cyprus put on its most powerful military parade in years today, marking 66 years of independence with a show of force th...

Cyprus put on its most powerful military parade in years today, marking 66 years of independence with a show of force that included new weapon systems, Greek F-16 Vipers screaming over Nicosia at low altitude, and military contingents from four allied nations marching together for the first time. The biggest debut was the Israeli-made Barak MX air defense system, appearing publicly for the first time after being incorporated into the National Guard's arsenal. Also making their parade debut were Poseidon H-10 unmanned aircraft, now part of the National Guard's Artillery, and three specially configured drone support vehicles capable of surveillance, reconnaissance, and strike missions. The Greek presence was front and center. Two Hellenic Air Force F-16 Vipers conducted a low-level flypast over the parade area, with Greek National Defence Minister Nikos Dendias standing on the official viewing platform alongside Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides. Units of the Hellenic Force in Cyprus also joined the mechanized section for the first time, featuring Leonidas armored vehicles, Hummers equipped with KORNET-E anti-tank missiles, and M-106 armored mortar carriers. The US sent 17 Marines from the destroyer USS Roosevelt. France contributed 22 Marines. Britain marched with both a military band and a full contingent, with Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton, Chief of the British Armed Forces, attending in person. Egypt sent Military Police personnel and a C295 transport aircraft for the aerial portion. A newly established Chemical, Biological and Radiological Threat Response Platoon also made its first appearance, signaling how seriously Cyprus is expanding its defense capabilities beyond conventional warfare. The Greek Navy frigate Nikiphoros Fokas and a National Guard coastal patrol vessel were docked in Larnaca as part of the broader anniversary events. #Cyprus #CyprusIndependence #GreekMilitary