Female contract soldiers of the 17th training intake sworn into the National Guard

On November 13, 2026, the National Guard of Cyprus held an official swearing-in ceremony for female contract soldiers (SYOP) belonging to the 17th training intake. The event took place at the Recruit Training Centre (KEN) in Larnaca and was attended by religious, political, and military leadership, including the Chief of the National Guard, Lieutenant General Emmanouel Theodorou.

During the ceremony, the new recruits took their oath of allegiance to the Republic of Cyprus, pledging to respect the constitution and defend the country's independence and territorial integrity. Brigadier Savvas Savvas, commander of the 1st Motorized Infantry Brigade, read the daily order on behalf of the Chief of the National Guard. In his message, Lieutenant General Theodorou emphasized that the recruits' decision to serve represents a conscious commitment requiring discipline, teamwork, and a high sense of duty.

Lieutenant General Theodorou addressed the broader security context of the island, citing the ongoing presence of Turkish occupation forces and regional instability. He underscored that the National Guard’s effectiveness depends on the professional readiness and determination of its soldiers. The ceremony marks the formal commencement of the military careers for these new personnel as they integrate into their respective units.