Cyprus marks 66th independence anniversary with grand military parade
On October 1, 2026, the Republic of Cyprus celebrated its 66th anniversary of independence with a major military parade on Iosif Hadjiosif Avenue in Nicosia. President Nikos Christodoulides presided over the event, accompanied by Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas and National Guard Chief Lieutenant General Emmanouil Theodorou. The Greek government was represented by Defence Minister Nikos Dendias. A 21-gun salute marked the beginning of the proceedings, followed by a display of motorized units, infantry, and various state services.
The parade featured a significant technological upgrade for the National Guard, with the first public presentation of the Israeli-made Barak MX air defense system. Additionally, the National Guard showcased new FPV drone capabilities, including three specialized support vehicles and Swarmly Aero's Poseidon H-10 drones. The air display highlighted two Greek F-16 Viper fighter jets, which performed flyovers after departing from Paphos Air Base.
This year's event was notable for the inclusion of foreign military contingents from Egypt, France, the United Kingdom, and the United States for the first time. While a flyover by a British Eurofighter was initially planned, it did not materialize. The parade emphasized Cyprus's ongoing efforts to modernize its defense infrastructure and strengthen international military cooperation in an evolving security landscape.