US Air Force Team Assesses Paphos Airbase Upgrade

A US Air Force assessment team from the 435th Contingency Response Squadron is visiting the Andreas Papandreou airbase in Paphos, Cyprus, to provide expertise on upgrading infrastructure and enhancing interoperability with the United States. Government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis emphasized the importance of deepening military cooperation for maintaining regional peace and stability. The team's focus will include airport operations, logistics, and communications, which are vital for modernizing Cyprus' defense capabilities. Deputy government spokesman Yiannis Antoniou clarified that the US's involvement is a response to mutual needs, particularly following regional crises that require evacuation capabilities. The Cypriot government assures that the bases will remain under national control, countering concerns about military appropriation. Relations between the US and Cyprus have strengthened in recent years, further solidifying military partnerships.