The state neglects the wealth of Cypriot enterprises, despite their possession of both technological expertise and innovation. Cypriot research and innovation companies are not merely capable, but they also hold the technological know-how to contribute their services to defense systems and security initiatives crucial to Cyprus' national safety.

A paradox lies within this scenario. While the potential exists, the Cypriot Republic has yet to harness the opportunities presented by these indigenous enterprises. Instead, it often turns to foreign corporations. This choice has detrimental consequences on two fronts: the missed prospects for advancing technology and knowledge in defense matters and the jeopardy posed to the national security of Cyprus. This vulnerability is due to the fact that the nation's security hinges not on internal factors but on external ones.

An illustrative case is the revelation that emerged after the fires in Limassol, where a foreign company was contracted for the installation of fire-detection camera systems, despite the availability of this technology from Cypriot companies as well.

Moreover, in the aftermath of the fires in 2021, the state summoned these Cypriot companies to propose solutions. Although solutions were provided, the issue seems to have been forgotten, as contracts were awarded to foreign companies.

The scope of the problem grows even larger, as the present moment finds the Republic of Cyprus significantly relying on foreign entities for its national security and defense, if not entirely.

In an interview with Brief, Tassos Kounoudis, President of the Cypriot Association of Research and Innovation Enterprises, highlighted that the association's members, numbering over 30 companies, not only possess the capabilities but also have the potential to offer their services.

However, the services that could enhance national security, as emphasized by the Cypriot Republic, have not yet been solicited from these companies. Paradoxically, these very enterprises are concurrently collaborating with international giants in the defense industry, sharing their technological expertise in various foreign programs.

Explaining further, Mr. Kounoudis points out that services pertaining to National Security should ideally be entrusted to domestic firms, considering the precedent set by other nations that advocate against relying on foreign companies for defense matters. Currently, as Mr. Kounoudis underscores, Cyprus leans 100% on foreign suppliers.

Additionally, the dependence on foreign suppliers poses another predicament: the lack of transfer of technological knowledge to the Cypriot defense industry. This stands in stark contrast to the example of Turkey, which succeeded in developing Bayraktar through the transfer of technological knowledge.

When asked whether the state or relevant authorities have sought meetings with these enterprises to discuss the aforementioned issues, Mr. Kounoudis responded negatively. Nonetheless, he stressed the association's readiness to engage in dialogue, provide solutions, and collaborate with the government to bolster Cyprus' defense industry.

Source: brief.com.cy