Military Parade in Nicosia: New Drones, F-16s, and Foreign Troops

The Nicosia Military Parade will begin today, Thursday, October 1, at 11:00 a.m. on Iosif Hadjiiosif Avenue in Strovolos. During the 66th anniversary celebrations, the public will be able to see the National Guard's new equipment, including drone-capable vehicles, an unmanned aerial vehicle, and the BARAK MX air defense system.

The program also includes a flyover by two Greek F-16 Vipers and an Egyptian C295 transport aircraft. Foreign troops, including those from Egypt, France, the United Kingdom, and the United States, will participate in the march. Those attending the ceremony should expect morning road closures and travel disruptions.

Three drone service vehicles

One of the new features will be three specially prepared vehicles supporting the use of FPV drones. This acronym stands for control with image preview from a camera mounted on the device.

Two vehicles are used to transport and operate small drones. These devices can perform reconnaissance tasks, observe terrain, gather information, and also be used for strike operations.

The third vehicle has a different function: it is a mobile workshop for building, customizing and servicing dronesIt allows you to transport the equipment needed to work on devices even outside of your permanent base.

According to information provided by the National Guard, local defense industry companies are involved in the development of these solutions, providing technical expertise and support.

BARAK MX and unmanned vessel

Among the most important elements of the show is MX BARACK, a medium- and long-range air defense system. It was added to the National Guard Aviation Command inventory in 2025.

The Navy's recently acquired unmanned vessel is expected to demonstrate new capabilities. Its demonstration is part of the broader use of systems that can operate without a crew directly on board.

The audience will also see multiple rocket launchers again. Tamnava, presented for the first time during last year's parade.

Poseidon H-10 will help artillery observe the terrain

Drones are to be shown for the first time Poseidon H-10 by Swarmly Aero. They entered artillery equipment in November 2025.

According to the announcement, their maximum range is 50 kilometers and they are operated by a three-person team. The devices can conduct surveillance and support targeting both day and night.

Part of the newly formed Chemical, Biological, and Radiological Response Platoon will also be present at the parade. This unit's mission includes detecting hazardous substances, collecting samples, and decontaminating personnel, equipment, and facilities.

F-16 Viper over the parade route

In the air announced two Greek F-16 Vipers, which are scheduled to fly at low altitude over Iosif Hadjiiosif Avenue. They will be accompanied by an Egyptian C295 transport aircraft.

According to Philenews, the previously considered flyover of the British Eurofighter will ultimately not take place.

The aircraft were already participating in preparations over Nicosia. The tests allowed residents to see part of the aviation program before the holiday celebrations.

Foreign troops and Greek vehicles

Egypt will send a military police unit. France will be represented by a marine unit, and the United Kingdom by a ceremonial military unit. Marines and sailors from a destroyer will arrive from the United States. USS Roosevelt.

The Greek ELDYK contingent is scheduled to participate in the parade with vehicles for the first time. The announcement includes Leonidas armored personnel carriers, Hummers equipped with Kornet-E anti-tank missiles, and M-106 mortar carriers.

The presence of foreign units will be a highlight of this year's celebrations. The program includes both a military march and a transfer of equipment.

The military parade in Nicosia will start at 11:00

The ceremony will be open to the public. In addition to the National Guard, the police, fire department, civil defense, forestry services, and medical personnel will be in attendance.

The parade will be hosted by President Nikos Christodoulides. Among the announced guests are Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias and the head of the British Armed Forces, Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton.

It's worth arriving early and planning to walk. The parade route will be closed to traffic from 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and restrictions on some access routes will begin earlier. The use of private drones is prohibited during the event.

The celebrations will also take place in Larnaca. The patrol vessel "Ioannidis" and the Greek frigate "Nikiforos Fokas" will be open to visitors in the port during business hours. 10:00–14:00 and 16:00–19:00, with security checks at the entrance.

Sources: Philenews, Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Cyprus, Cyprus Police, National Guard