Arquus has recently announced a significant partnership with the Cypriot National Guard to supply Sherpa station wagon vehicles armed with Akeron missile launchers. This contract involves the delivery of 12 advanced vehicles, each outfitted with weapon systems capable of deploying MBDA’s proprietary warhead.
The collaboration was revealed during an event in Athens, and it follows a trial conducted in Cyprus in September 2022. This trial tested the firepower of the Akeron-equipped Sherpa vehicles against targets situated at distances ranging from 2,500 to 3,000 meters (approximately 8,202 to 9,843 feet). The evaluation assessed the vehicle’s performance in both autonomous and collaborative operational modes.
This initiative underscores the commitment of both Nicosia and Paris to enhance their long-term collaboration, focused on strengthening the local defense industry within Mediterranean nations. Arquus highlighted that the Cypriot Ministry of Defence has expressed intentions to further deepen its partnership with the Versailles-based company. Plans include the modernization of Cyprus’ existing 4×4 and 6×6 VAB armored personnel carriers.
Arquus has also built ties with other regional partners, including Greece, which has recently acquired 240 light armored vehicles. In its press release, the company expressed enthusiasm regarding its initial collaboration with Cyprus, emphasizing a goal to solidify its presence as a long-term partner in the region. The agreement further illustrates the industrial partnership between Arquus and MBDA, emphasizing their joint efforts to deliver a product tailored specifically to meet Cyprus’ defense requirements.
The Sherpa light armored vehicle, which is central to this agreement, weighs 11 tons (9,979 kilograms) and can measure up to 6 meters (20 feet), depending on its configuration. This versatile platform has the capacity to transport up to 10 personnel and is fortified with EU and NATO-standard anti-ballistic protection, along with options for armament such as 12.7-millimeter machine guns and 40-millimeter grenade launchers.
Powered by either a Euro 3 or Euro 5 engine offering 215 horsepower, the Sherpa has an operational range of 900 kilometers (559 miles) and can achieve speeds of up to 120 kilometers (75 miles) per hour. Beyond the station wagon setup, the Sherpa is available in various configurations, including scout, weapons carrier, assault ladder, and police variants, showcasing its adaptability for multiple defense scenarios.
