On Sunday, November 8, ceremonies in honor of the patron of the Cyprus Air Force Archangel Michael took place at the Andreas Papandreou airbase.

The ceremony, held in the presence of Defense Minister Vasilis Palmas, began with a prayer service and was distinguished by particular solemnity. In the festive order the commander of the Aviation Command Brigadier General-pilot Georgios Alexandrou emphasized the continuous work to strengthen the operational readiness and capabilities of the Air Force, as well as the country’s determination to acquire modern combat aircraft. According to him, in the face of increased demands for task performance the Air Force acts consistently, with clear planning and a vision for further buildup of operational potential.

As the commander noted, with the support of the state and under the leadership of the political and military leadership of the Ministry of Defense modern rearmament programs are being implemented and existing means are being modernized. He paid special attention to new systems that increase combat readiness: targeted purchases of modern air defense systems, attack helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles and the latest surveillance radars significantly strengthen the country’s deterrent potential. At the same time Alexandrou sent a clear signal that the course toward further strengthening of aviation continues.

“We are ready to take even larger steps — to obtain our own combat aircraft,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of the ability to promptly and effectively respond to any section of the Nicosia FIR.

The commander also dwelt on the geographical position of Cyprus, which gives the country special strategic significance but at the same time entails increased responsibility. The proximity of the threat and constant challenges in the region, according to him, make continuous vigilance, operational readiness and tireless work on modernization necessary. Georgios Alexandrou called this day primarily a day of memory and paying honors to those who gave their lives for the homeland. He honored the memory of the fallen pilots, emphasizing that it is inextricably linked with the sky they loved and served, and remains an unchanging example of courage, selflessness and devotion to duty.

Separate words of gratitude were addressed to the families of the fallen — children, spouses, brothers and sisters, mothers and fathers, as well as all who continue to live with the feeling of their absence. “Our responsibility and our duty is to continue their work,” became the main message of the commander, linking the memory of the fallen with today’s task of building a strong, modern and combat-ready aviation.

After the ceremony an aviation equipment demonstration took place. As part of the festive events the base is open to the public from 13:00 to 16:00: visitors can closely familiarize themselves with aircraft, equipment and aviation armament, as well as watch aerial demonstrations.

Source: omegalive.com.cy

https://cyprusbutterfly.com.cy/news/aviabaze-andreasa-papandreu-pafose-proshel