Cyprus Coast Guard Welcomes Three New Vessels

The maritime fleet of the Cyprus Coast Guard has been expanded with three Category B vessels, announced the country's Minister of Justice, Anna Procopiou, on Monday.

These vessels were acquired as part of initiatives launched by the EU in 2020, with both the European Union and Cyprus covering the expenses. The handover ceremony for the ships took place at the Limassol port.

The ships have been named "Pentadaktylos," "Kantara," and "Kyrenia I." They are equipped with advanced navigation systems and thermal imaging cameras, enabling the detection of individuals and other vessels from a distance.

"Cyprus coastal and naval police are currently at the forefront of monitoring the coastline and protecting the external maritime borders. The addition of these vessels is crucial as it significantly strengthens the surveillance and protection of the coastline, ports, and territorial waters of the Republic of Cyprus," stated the minister.

It is also noted that the role of maritime vessels includes preventing illegal or irregular migration, patrolling the coastline and territorial waters, protecting port infrastructure and vessels, as well as responding to threats and terrorist activities.

Additionally, plans are in place to acquire ten new Category C vessels in 2024. The latter can operate only within 15 nautical miles from the shore, in contrast to the 40 nautical miles permitted for Category B vessels.