The cabinet has approved an increase in the special allowance granted to all contract soldiers (Syop), Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas said on Thursday.

Speaking after the cabinet meeting, Palmas said the allowance will rise “from €100 to €150 for all Syop”, while for those serving in specialised units it will increase “from €200 to €250”.

He specified that the higher rate applies to personnel serving in the special operations forces, commando units, underwater demolition teams, mine clearance and explosives disposal units, as well as nurses. It also includes new categories such as military police motorcyclists, tank transporter drivers and engineering machinery operators.

Asked when a new call for Syop positions would be announced, Palmas said, “we are preparing intensively; it will take place in May.”

He noted that the recruitment drive will concern vacant positions, while examinations will also be held by the education ministry for the permanent employment of the first 250 Syop, who are completing 10 years of service in the National Guard.

Commenting on a French media report suggesting that Cyprus plans to procure around 100 anti-tank weapons from France through the EU’s Safe programme, Palmas said he would “neither confirm nor deny”.

“As you know, within the framework of the European Union’s Safe regulation, there are many cooperation programmes with the French government. Therefore, from time to time, various reports may emerge concerning cooperation between the Republic of Cyprus and the French Republic,” he said.

“We will need to show some patience until the second half of 2026, when we will draw the first funds, always in cooperation with the finance ministry, in order to utilise the Safe regulation. Within this framework, we will decide on our initial priorities.”

Asked whether anti-tank systems are among those priorities, the minister said there are “several issues under consideration, including matters related to anti-tank capabilities”.

On discussions with Athens regarding Cyprus’ intention to acquire the ‘Kentavros’ anti-drone system, Palmas said he had been in contact with his Greek counterpart, Defence Minister Nikos Dendias.

“It is a fact that the Republic of Cyprus is interested, at an initial stage, in purchasing four Kentavros anti-drone systems,” he said.

He added that authorities will assess delivery timelines and production capacity in Greece to determine whether the systems will be acquired through the Safe programme where Kentavros is already included or via a direct award process.

“The defence ministry has this option under the law, through the state budget. We will assess the timelines and make the relevant decision,” Palmas said.