Leopard tank acquisition remains unconfirmed

The ending of conscripts being given posts within the ministry of defence and the general staff of the National Guard was announced on Monday by Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas.

He was speaking at the opening of the electronic platform for submission of selection details by conscripts starting national service in 2026.

Palmas said the decision forms part of a broader effort to strengthen transparency and meritocracy within the National Guard, while also limiting incidents that could create perceptions of unequal treatment.

He added that although in previous years the selection of conscripts for roles at the ministry had been based on objective criteria, their appointment to such positions has now been deemed inappropriate.

At the same time, he neither confirmed nor denied reports concerning the acquisition of Leopard tanks from Greece.

Responding to a question on a reported agreement to acquire the tanks, Palmas reiterated that it is the ministry’s standing position not to publicly discuss details relating to the strengthening of the National Guard with weapons systems.

He added that the National Guard evaluates its needs and conditions on a daily basis and adjusts its reinforcement accordingly, adding that Cyprus remains in constant contact with Greece at both political and military level, as well as with other friendly and allied countries.

The electronic platform for the submission of conscript selection details for the 2026 intake will accept applications and supporting documents until May 3, Palmas said, calling on teens to submit their information in a timely manner.

Asked what would happen to those who failed to apply on time, the minister said they would be appointed to units according to the needs of the National Guard, without them being able to express a preference as to where.

The minister also referred to the examination process for the appointment of 250 contract soldiers (Syop) to permanent positions, which will take place on May 30. The process, he said, will include both specialised military subjects and an assessment of critical and abstract thinking skills.

While the ministry of defence has prepared a comprehensive question bank, the final paper will be drawn up by the ministry of education’s examinations service.

He also announced that an electronic platform for the recruitment of new contract soldiers will be launched in May, with the aim of attracting capable and well-trained young people to the National Guard.