In a significant development, France, Belgium, Cyprus, Estonia, and Hungary have come together to sign a letter of intent for the joint procurement of French Mistral air defence systems.

This collaborative move highlights France’s efforts to persuade its European allies to opt for European defence systems that is leading, countering Germany’s European Sky Shield initiative from which France abstains.

The decision made by these five countries to acquire Mistral air defence systems underscores their shared commitment to fostering European defence capabilities and reducing reliance on external sources. It marks a crucial step towards strengthening European defence cooperation and promoting self-sufficiency within the region.

The Ministry of Defence of Cyprus also released a statement regarding the joint procurement: “During a visit to the exhibition, Mr. Andreas P. Louca, the Director General of the Ministry of Defence, engaged in meetings and visits at aerospace industry company booths. Subsequently, at the Hotel des Invalides, Mr. Louca joined the Ministers of Defence from Belgium, France, Estonia, and Hungary in co-signing the Letter of Intent for the joint purchase of Mistral anti-aircraft missiles”

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