Cyprus and France conduct joint search and rescue exercise

On Wednesday, August 19, 2026, Cyprus and France conducted a joint search and rescue exercise titled "CYFRA 04/26". The operation took place within the search and rescue area of the Republic of Cyprus and was coordinated by the Joint Rescue Coordination Center (JRCC).

The exercise involved a French naval vessel equipped with an organic helicopter, a patrol boat from the Cyprus Port and Marine Police, a rescue helicopter from the 460th Search and Rescue Squadron of the National Guard, a helicopter from the Police Aviation Unit, and the specialized "MEDEVAC" team from the Ambulance Service. The primary objective was to strengthen military cooperation between the two nations and improve the operational capabilities and coordination of crews when handling search and rescue incidents.

This exercise is part of an ongoing bilateral defense cooperation program aimed at enhancing interoperability between the Cypriot and French armed forces in maritime rescue scenarios. No further specific follow-up actions were announced, but the mission underscores the established partnership between the two countries in maritime safety and regional defense operations.