The Cyprus National Guard has officially acquired two H-10 Poseidon surveillance drones from local manufacturer Swarmly Aero, as reported by various media outlets. This advancement marks a significant enhancement in the military capabilities of Cyprus.
The H-10 Poseidon drone is engineered for both day and night operations, even under challenging environmental conditions. It boasts a maximum flight altitude of 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) and an operational range of 50 kilometers (31 miles). One of its key functions is to conduct reconnaissance and facilitate fire coordination, providing artillery units with critical real-time data on target locations and movements.
Designed with low detectability in mind, the H-10 Poseidon features a reduced thermal signature and minimal radar reflection. These attributes make it a formidable tool in surveillance operations. Furthermore, the drone is equipped with advanced anti-jamming and anti-spoofing technologies, ensuring sustained operational performance even in environments with high electronic threats. Notably, its GPS navigation can be overridden if signals face jamming or spoofing, allowing for continued operation using alternative satellite navigation systems.
The H-10 Poseidon has also been previously deployed on the Ukrainian front, with reports indicating that over 200 units have been supplied to Kyiv, alongside additional exports to Indonesia.
In tandem with bolstering its domestic defense capabilities, Nicosia is also expanding its imports of advanced military equipment. Last year, Cyprus welcomed its first two H145M multirole helicopters from Airbus as part of a contract secured in 2022. This acquisition is part of a broader six-helicopter modernization initiative for the Cypriot National Guard.
Recent policy shifts from the United States, announced in early 2025, have facilitated Cyprus’s ability to procure foreign military equipment. This framework permits the country to obtain defense articles, supplies, and services through various programs, including foreign military sales. According to U.S. officials, providing defense equipment to Cyprus aims to enhance the nation’s security and contribute to greater regional stability in the Mediterranean.
