Cyprus Rejects German Tanks, Awaits Israeli Merkava Deal Amid Rising Maintenance Issues

Cyprus continues to show strong interest in acquiring surplus Israeli Merkava Mark 3 tanks despite halting negotiations after October 7. A Cypriot National Guard delegation that reviewed an offer for approximately 90 German Leopard A51 tanks in Greece decided to reject it. Currently operating Russian T-80 tanks, Cyprus faces increasing maintenance challenges due to spare parts shortages and sanctions on Russia. Although the Leopard is a well-regarded tank globally, the Cypriot military appears to prefer Israeli-made vehicles. The Merkava deal, which included tanks equipped with 120mm guns and the "Windbreaker" active protection system, was frozen by Israel following the outbreak of war to preserve the Israel Defense Forces' armored capabilities. Similar tank sales to other countries, such as Morocco, were also suspended. The Israeli Ministry of Defense estimates that selling these tanks could generate tens of millions of dollars to help fund procurement of the newer Merkava Mark 4 tanks. It remains uncertain whether Cyprus will wait for the release of Mark 3 tanks from Israel or pursue a purchase of new Mark 4 models directly from the manufacturer. Cyprus, partially occupied by Turkey, has expanded its defense acquisitions from Israel in recent years, including reportedly purchasing the Barak MX air defense system from Israel Aerospace Industries.