**Cyprus and Greece Conduct Joint Search and Rescue Exercise in Eastern Mediterranean**
On Wednesday, Cyprus and Greece collaborated on a significant joint search and rescue exercise in the eastern Mediterranean, as announced by the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC). The operation, designated "Salamis-03/26," was executed within the Republic of Cyprus' designated search and rescue area.
The exercise showcased the participation of various naval and aerial assets, including the Greek navy frigates Nikiforos Fokas and Hydra, as well as the National Guard's naval command patrol vessel Ioannidis. Additionally, a helicopter from the National Guard's 460 Search and Rescue Squadron was deployed, along with a helicopter from the police aviation unit. Medical personnel from the ambulance service's specialist MEDEVAC team also took part in the exercise, highlighting the comprehensive approach to emergency response.
Coordination for the exercise was managed by the Larnaca JRCC, in collaboration with the Hellenic Navy General Staff. This joint initiative is part of a broader bilateral agreement between Cyprus and Greece focused on enhancing search and rescue capabilities in the region.
The JRCC emphasized that the exercise aimed to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of search and rescue services in the eastern Mediterranean, an area that has seen increased maritime activity and the need for robust emergency response mechanisms.
The frigate Nikiforos Fokas, which participated in the exercise, has recently replaced the frigate Elli, which completed nearly 100 days of deployment as part of Greece's defense contribution following a drone strike on the British Base of Akrotiri.
This joint exercise underscores the commitment of both nations to bolster their maritime security and emergency response capabilities, reinforcing their longstanding defense cooperation in the region.