Turkey deploys new maritime traffic monitoring system in northern Cyprus

On July 20, coinciding with the anniversary of the 1974 Turkish invasion of Cyprus, Turkey activated a new Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) system in the occupied territories. Turkish Minister of Transport Abdulkadir Uraloglu stated the system provides 24-hour real-time monitoring of maritime zones claimed by Turkey and the self-declared Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), an entity recognized only by Ankara. Developed by HAVELSAN and ASELSAN, the infrastructure includes a control center in Famagusta and surveillance stations in Karpasia, Livera, and Agios Theodoros. The system utilizes radar, electro-optical cameras, automatic identification systems (AIS), and sensors to track shipping activity. Data is transmitted to both the local control center and the Mersin Maritime Traffic Service Center in Turkey. Ankara states the system aims to improve maritime safety, monitor illegal activities, and coordinate emergency responses in the region. The international community continues to recognize only the Republic of Cyprus as the sovereign authority over the island.