**Barak MX Unveiled at Cyprus Independence Day Parade**
Nicosia, Cyprus – Cyprus celebrated the 66th anniversary of its independence on Thursday, with a grand military parade held in the capital, Nicosia. This year's event featured a significant highlight: the public debut of the Barak MX modular multi-mission air and missile defense system, showcased by the National Guard for the first time.
The parade took place on Iosif Hadjiosif Avenue, where a variety of military hardware was displayed, emphasizing Cyprus's commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities. The Barak MX is a medium-to-long-range defense system designed to provide comprehensive protection against aerial threats, marking a notable advancement in the National Guard's military assets.
In addition to the Barak MX, the parade included participation from military contingents from Egypt and Britain, both of which made their debut at this annual event. Among the foreign military presence was an Airbus C295 transport aircraft from the Egyptian Air Force, further underscoring the collaborative military relationships between Cyprus and its allies.
The event was attended by several high-ranking officials, including President Nikos Christodoulides, who took the salute, and Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas. They were joined by Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias, National Guard chief Lieutenant General Emmanouel Theodorou, and Greece’s Chief of the National Defence General Staff General Dimitrios Houpis.
The parade commenced at 11 a.m. and featured a variety of military displays, including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and a formation of four Airbus H145M attack helicopters that flew over the city. The inclusion of these advanced technologies highlights Cyprus's ongoing efforts to modernize its defense forces.
Additionally, the event saw participation from U.S. Marines and sailors aboard the USS Roosevelt, as well as French marines. The aerial display was further enhanced by a low-altitude flyby of two F-16 Viper fighter jets from the Hellenic Air Force, showcasing the strength and capabilities of the participating nations.
Among the distinguished guests were Britain’s Chief of the Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton, along with representatives from the armed forces of Egypt, France, and the United States, as well as various foreign ambassadors and defense attachés.
The Independence Day parade not only served as a demonstration of military strength but also as a platform for reaffirming Cyprus's commitment to national defense and regional cooperation. Following the parade, President Christodoulides emphasized the importance of continuing to strengthen the island's defense capabilities while also reiterating the government's commitment to reunification efforts.
The event was marked by a spirit of national pride, as citizens gathered to witness the military displays and celebrate Cyprus's independence, reflecting on the historical significance of the day. The participation of foreign military forces underscored the strategic partnerships that Cyprus maintains with its allies, enhancing security in the region.
As Cyprus moves forward, the unveiling of the Barak MX and the participation of international military contingents signal a proactive approach to national defense, aiming to bolster the island's security in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.