Cyprus Times

Greek Frigates with Powerful Air Defense Systems Deployed to Cyprus: How They Enhance Air Defense

Published March 2, 2026, 14:05
Greek Frigates with Powerful Air Defense Systems Deployed to Cyprus: How They Enhance Air Defense

The deployment of the Greek frigates 'Kimon' and 'Psara', along with F-16 fighter jets to Cyprus, represents a clear enhancement of the island's air defense capabilities following recent drone attacks. The 'Kimon' frigate, a FDI HN (Belharra) type, is the most modern anti-aircraft platform in the Greek fleet, equipped with Aster 30 missiles, AESA Sea Fire radar, and an advanced combat system, capable of long-range area air defense. The 'Psara' frigate (MEKO 200HN class) features ESSM missiles and a CIWS Phalanx system, but most importantly incorporates the domestically developed 'Kentavros' electronic warfare system. 'Kentavros', developed by the Hellenic Aerospace Industry, is a jamming system designed to counter unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) by disrupting their communication and guidance signals. The combined presence of the two frigates and the F-16s creates a robust air defense umbrella, capable of dealing with both conventional air threats and drones. The 'Kimon' provides long-range area air defense, while 'Psara' and 'Kentavros' focus on countering unmanned threats. The deployment of these assets to Cyprus represents a significant boost to regional security, given increased tensions and the use of drones in modern conflicts. Through the dispatch of these units, Greece demonstrates its firm commitment to security and peace in the Eastern Mediterranean.