Cyprus and France conduct joint search and rescue exercise CYFRA 04/26

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

The exercise featured the participation of a French warship accompanied by its onboard helicopter, alongside several Cypriot assets, including a Port and Marine Police vessel, a helicopter from the 460th Search and Rescue Squadron of the National Guard, a police aviation unit helicopter, and the specialized MEDEVAC team from the Ambulance Service. The drill was conducted as part of the established bilateral defense cooperation program between the two nations. The primary objective was to enhance operational coordination and train crews in responding effectively to maritime search and rescue incidents, thereby strengthening existing ties between the Cypriot and French armed forces.