CNS Resources on the Missile Crisis over Cyprus

Cyprus, the S-300PMU-1 Missile System, and Regional Security:

A Chronology

8/16 The Greek- and Turkish-inhabited island state of Cyprus is declared an independent republic, with Greece, Turkey, and the United Kingdom (UK) serving as guarantor powers. The UK retains sovereign rights to two military bases on the island. Greek Archbishop Mikhail Makarios becomes president of the Republic.

Late 1962 Greek and Turkish community leaders hold a series of meetings on municipal government, but are unable to resolve their disagreements regarding taxation, municipal councils, and local government.

As tension mounts, Cyprus’ Greek and Turkish communities begin forming paramilitary groups.

12/21 Fighting breaks out, with scores of Greek and Turkish casualties.

12/30 The "Green Line" is established in the capital city of Nicosia, separating the island’s Greek and Turkish communities.

3/4 The United Nations Security Council approves Resolution 186, which establishes the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP).

4/13 President Makarios agrees to accept the stationing of a division of troops from Greece, which is deployed by the end of summer under the command of General Georgios Grivas.

8/8 Fighting resumes between Greek and Turkish groups.

12/29 Following the withdrawal of Greek troops on 11/15, Turkish Cypriot leaders declare the formation of the Provisional Turkish Cypriot Administration (PTCA), claiming jurisdiction over the Turkish-occupied northern portion of the island.

7/15 Under orders from Greece's military government, the Cypriot National Guard stages a coup against President Makarios, who flees to London.

7/20 Turkey invades Cyprus, and Turkish Premier Bulent Ecevit declares that as a guarantor power, Turkey is justified in intervening to restore order and protect the territorial integrity of Cyprus.

8/14-8/16 Turkish forces fight their way south and establish the Attila Line, thereby occupying the northern 37% of the island.

12/7 Makarios returns to Cyprus to resume the presidency.

2/10 The Turkish-occupied area of Cyprus is declared the Turkish Federated State of Cyprus. Turkey deploys 35,000 troops on the island. (Turkey has maintained a garrison of approximately 30,000 to 35,000 to the present day.)

11/15 The Turkish-occupied region of Cyprus is declared the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), but is recognized internationally only by Turkey. The UN Security Council condemns the declaration, and repeats its call for the withdrawal of all foreign military forces from Cyprus.

11/93 Cyprus and Greece formulate the Joint Defense Doctrine following the election of Cypriot President Glavkos Clerides. The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) parliament responds by approving a plan to coordinate the TRNC's defense and foreign policies with Turkey.

3/3 The European Union announces that it will initiate negotiations on Cyprus’ entry into the organization.

3/5 Cypriot Defense Minister Costas Eliades and Greek Defense Minister Gerasimos Arsenis sign the Joint Defense Doctrine, which commits Greece to aid Cyprus in the event of war.

9/23-27 The Greek air force and navy participate in Cyprus’ "Niceforos ’95" military exercise. Apparently due to US pressure, Greece cancels a plan to airdrop paratroopers on the island to avoid provoking Turkey. According to Greece, the US opposed all Greek participation in the exercises, fearing it would lead to military escalation on the island.

12/19 The US Clinton administration announces that it intends to approve a $132 million sale of 120 MGM-140 Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) to Turkey. A December 12 US Department of Defense announcement said that "this proposed sale will not adversely affect either the military balance in the region or US efforts to encourage a negotiated settlement of the Cyprus question." The ATACMS has a range of 160km and can strike targets in Cyprus from Turkey. The missile carries a 450kg payload of 950 M74 anti-personnel bomblets, and has a highly accurate inertial guidance system with update capability. It is designed to attack rear-echelon forces, surface-to-air missile sites, airfields, and ballistic missile launchers. The Cypriot government protests the sale, and asks that the United States guarantee that the missiles will not be used against Cyprus.

12/28 Cypriot press reports indicate that the government is considering the purchase of an air-defense system to defend against Turkish aircraft and missile threats, including that posed by the ATACMS.

6/20 Greek Defense Minister Gerasimos Arsenis states that Greece will increase its defense budget "well above the current 4.6 percent of gross domestic product" over the next five years to maintain the balance of power in the Aegean with Turkey. Arsenis says that the spending increase is necessary to acquire new weapon systems in response to Turkey’s purchase of missiles, naval vessels, and fighter aircraft.

8/19 Greek Prime Minister Costas Simitis says that Greece will not tolerate any Turkish military advance against Cyprus, and that "any attack against Cyprus will meet our immediate and decisive response."

1/5 Cypriot Foreign Minister Alecos Michaelides confirms that Cyprus has signed an agreement with the Russian firm Rosvoorouzhenie to purchase the S-300PMU-1 surface-to-air theater missile defense system. The value of the deal is estimated at $400-600 million although it is not clear how many S-300PMU-1 batteries or launchers are included in the contract. The S-300PMU-1 system is capable of intercepting and destroying aircraft at ranges of up to 150km, and incoming missiles at up to 40km. The Cyprus government says the S-300PMU-1 is a defensive system and will pose a threat only to Turkish military aircraft that violate Cypriot airspace. Cyprus President Glavkos Clerides says that Turkey’s rejection of his proposal to demilitarize the island leaves Cyprus no choice but to purchase the S-300PMU-1 to counter the military superiority of Turkey and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.

1/5 Turkish Defense Minister Turhan Tayan says the S-300PMU-1 deal would "undermine peace in the region." Turkish Prime Minister Necmettin Erbakan also threatens military action to block the missiles’ deployment, saying "if necessary, the Turkish armed forces will do their duty." Turkish President Suleyman Demirel declares that, "Turkey will not allow any threats against the Turkish Cypriot community or against Turkey."

1/5 Greek Defense Minister Akis Tsohatzopoulos, says that Greece is "ready to assist and defend Cyprus." He also said that any aggressive Turkish action would be met by an immediate military response from Greece.

1/11 The Washington Times reports that Turkey has threatened a pre-emptive strike if Cyprus proceeds with the S-300PMU-1 contract.

1/13 After meeting with Cypriot President Glavkos Clerides, US State Department official Carey Cavanaugh announces that he has received assurances from Clerides that the S-300PMU-1 system will not be deployed on Cyprus for at least 16 months.

1/16 Russian officials protest Turkish threats to prevent the S-300PMU-1 delivery to Cyprus. They say that Western opposition to the sale is an attempt to keep Russia out of the regional arms market.

1/28 Russian Ambassador to Cyprus, Georgy Muratov, says that Russia will proceed with the delivery of the S-300PMU-1 system unless the island is demilitarized.

2/9 Israeli Defense Minister Yitzhak Mordechai denies Cypriot press reports that Israel is supplying Turkey with intelligence information to help impede delivery of the S-300PMU-1.

4/18 The European Union (EU) announces that it will begin membership negotiations with Cyprus.

6/22 Cyprus Foreign Minister Ioannis Kasoulidhis says that the S-300PMU-1 will not arrive until 7/98 at the earliest. He says this provides adequate time to negotiate the re-unification of Cyprus.

6/25 Russian Foreign Minister Yevgeny Primakov states that contracts for the S-300PMU-1 deal "have been signed and the missiles will be shipped. There will be no retreat."

8/4 Turkey’s Foreign Affairs Minister Ismail Cem and Turkish Cypriot Foreign Affairs Minister Atay Rasit endorse an agreement to integrate the economies and armed forces of the two governments.

8/15 United Nations-mediated talks between Cypriot President Glavkos Clerides and Turkish Cypriot President Rauf Denktas conclude without making significant progress.

8/26 The Turkish coast guard halts and searches an Egyptian ship in the Marmara Sea reportedly carrying parts for the S-300PMU-1, but none are found.

9/4 After searching four Russian and Egyptian vessels suspected of carrying the S-300PMU-1 to Cyprus, Turkish authorities warn that "ships carrying missiles to hostile countries will be regarded as a cause of war." Turkey has reportedly received satellite intelligence from the United States regarding ships suspected of transporting the S-300PMU-1.

9/12 Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktas says that war will erupt if the European Union begins negotiations for Cyprus’ full membership in the EU.

9/17 In reference to the S-300PMU-1 deployment, Turkish Prime Minister Mesut Yilmaz says that the Turkish military general staff has been ordered to make "all possible military plans, including the ‘last resort option’ of striking at the missiles." He also says that "Turkey may resort to every measure to ensure its security."

9/26 The Turkish newspaper Milliyet publishes a report from Turkish intelligence sources alleging that Greece has paid a $150 million installment on Cyprus’ S-300PMU-1 system, by diverting money provided by the United Nations Housing Fund.

10/1 Jane’s Defence Weekly reports that Turkey plans to establish an air-defense system in Northern Cyprus in response to the expected deployment of S-300PMU-1.

10/6-12 Russian and Turkish officials reveal that they have been discussing the possibility of Turkey purchasing the S-300PMU-1 system, but say that no agreement has been reached.

10/9 During an interview on Cyprus television, Russian Ambassador to Cyrus Georgy Muratov says that any attack by Turkey on Russian vessels delivering the S-300PMU-1 to Cyprus will be deemed grounds for war.

10/9 The US Department of Defense (DoD) announces the sale of 138 AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) and 129 ALU-129A/A launchers to Turkey for $62 million. The missiles will be used to enhance the defensive capabilities of Turkish F-16 fighter aircraft. The DoD also announces the sale of 20 RGM-84 Harpoon anti-shipping missiles to Greece for $35 million along with 90 AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles for $42 million. The DoD states that the sales are intended to strengthen NATO’s southern flank, and will not affect the military balance in the region or relations between Greece and Turkey.

10/13 Turkish Deputy Prime Minister and National Defense Minister Ismet Sezgin says that if S-300PMU-1 missiles are deployed on Cyprus, Turkey will acquire "modern weapons to strike at the missiles."

10/13 During a visit to the island, US Special Representative to Cyprus Ambassador Richard Holbrooke calls for an "indefinite ban on military flights over Cyprus." Turkish officials respond by saying that Turkey would not agree to the ban, and that they are not prepared to make concessions to prevent the deployment of the S-300PMU-1 missiles.

10/22 Greek Deputy National Defense Minister Dhimitrios Apostolakis says that if ships transporting the Russian S-300PMU-1 missiles to Cyprus are attacked, or if Turkey occupies a Greek island, Greece will react at any cost.

10/23 In a prepared statement delivered at Istanbul airport, Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktas says that negotiations for Cyprus’ entry into the European Union are more dangerous than Cyprus' acquisition of the S-300PMU-1 missile system.

10/31 The Turkish newspaper Hurriyet reports that Russia has decided not to sell the S-300PMU-1 missile system to Greece, but will still sell them to Cyprus.

11/5 On the final day of their Toros military exercise, Turkish aircraft and commandos destroy mock S-300PMU-1 sites on Cyprus. Turkish naval forces conduct a mock invasion of the island, using a landing craft previously used in their 1974 invasion of the island.

11/11 The US Department of Defense announces the sale of 30 Army Tactical Missiles (ATACMS) and associated parts and logistical support to Greece for an estimated $31 million. The sale complements a previous sale of 41 ATACMS approved in July 1996. According to the announcement, the sale "will not adversely affect either the military balance in the region or US efforts to encourage a negotiated settlement of the Cyprus question."

12/19 Russian Foreign Ministry spokesman Gennadiy Tarasov denies reports that Russian Foreign Minister Yevgeny Primakov said Russia would halt the S-300PMU-1 sale to Cyprus in return for financial compensation.

12/23 Turkish Minister of National Defense Ismet Sezgin says Turkey will discontinue arms purchases from Russia if it proceeds with delivery of the S-300PMU-1 system to Cyprus.

1/13 Rosvoorouzhenie representatives say that delivery of the S-300PMU-1 batteries will occur as scheduled.

1/17 Citing assurances from the United States that Cyprus would not actually deploy the S-300PMU-1 system, Turkish government officials say that the S-300PMU-1 missiles should not be attacked. However, Turkish military officials reportedly dispute this view.

2/4 Jane’s Defence Weekly reports the opening of the Paphos airbase on Cyprus for use by the Greek air force under the Cyprus-Greece joint defense doctrine. Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktas threatens to "break the wings" of any Greek aircraft that use the base. The base is expected to be fully operational in 1999. Turkey threatens to build two naval bases on the island and to upgrade the Gecitkale airbase in northern Cyprus to military standards.

3/11 A 1996 contract for Cyprus’ purchase of 40 T-80U main battle tanks from Russia for $120 million is disclosed, but the delivery date for the tanks is not revealed. Cyprus previously purchased 41 of the tanks, as well as 43 BMP-3 armored infantry combat vehicles, from Russia.

3/26 The US State Department rejects Greek Foreign Minister Theodoros Pangalos’ proposal for establishing a US-enforced no-fly zone for Turkish aircraft over Cyprus, in exchange for halting delivery of the S-300PMU-1 system.

3/27 Italian Ambassador to Cyprus Francesco Bascone announces that Italy will suspend further deliveries of its short-range Aspide theater-defense missiles to Cyprus. The Aspide is a ground-and ship-launched missile weighing 220kg with a range of 15km. It carries a 30kg high-explosive, fragmentation warhead intended for use against aircraft and sea-skimming and diving missiles. Italy’s decision is believed to be the result of pressure from the United States.

3/29 The Cypriot government denies press reports that Greece is considering accepting the S-300PMU-1 batteries purchased by Cyprus. Greek National Defense Minister Akis Tsokhatzopoulos says that the Cypriot government has exclusive authority to decide the destination of the S-300PMU-1.

4/1 The European Union (EU) opens accession talks with Cyprus in Brussels. Turkey and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) announce the formation of an economic union in response, and declare that the TRNC may merge completely with Turkey in response to the dispute over Cyprus’ entry into the EU.

4/5 The Greek newspaper To Vima Tis Kiriakis reports that the United States is re-examining Greek Foreign Minister Theodoros Pangalos’ proposal for a no-fly zone for Turkish military aircraft over Cyprus, in exchange for halting delivery of the S-300PMU-1 to the island.

4/7 Greek military chief Athanasios Tzoganis and Turkish military chief Ismail Hakky Karadayi hold talks in Cyprus prior to a meeting of the Western European Union. Tzoganis says the two leaders will "exploit all such opportunities to meet." Karadayi describes the talks as "positive."

4/10 Middle East International reports that during his 3/98 visit to Moscow, Greek Defense Minister Akis Tsokhatzopoulos said Greece may purchase S-300PMU-1 missiles from Russia.

4/29 Rosvoorouzhenie director Yevgeny Ananyev announces that although the S-300PMU-1s have not yet been manufactured, they will be delivered to Cyprus in mid-August, rather than September or October as originally expected.

4/30 Russia’s permanent representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Sergey Lavrov, submits Russia’s proposal for the demilitarization of Cyprus to UN Secretary General Kofi Annan. The plan calls for Greece, Turkey, and both Cypriot communities to terminate Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot arms acquisitions. If implemented, the plan would include canceling the S-300PMU-1 acquisition by Cyprus.

5/4 US presidential envoy Richard Holbrooke states that the European Union’s (EU) decision to open accession talks with Cyprus has led to the deadlock in the Cyprus peace talks. Holbrooke says that the EU made an "unfortunate" decision in not inviting Turkey to become a member of the organization, and that the current deadlock on Cyprus "was a result of that decision." He also says, "if progress is to be made on Cyprus, both sides must be willing to engage in genuine give-and-take. This is not the current situation, especially in regard to two positions taken by the Turkish side." According to Holbrooke, negotiations to resolve the Cyprus problem stalled when Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktas insisted that Cyprus withdraw its EU membership application, and that the negotiations on a settlement be conducted on a state-to-state basis.

5/6 Agence France Presse reports an unidentified Turkish government official as saying that Turkey would not object to a Greek plan to purchase the S-300PMU-1s destined for Cyprus, and instead deploy them on the Greek island of Crete.

5/20 Russian Armed Forces Chief of Staff Anatoly Kvashnin and Turkish Armed Forces Chief of Staff Ismail Hakky Karadayi sign a memorandum of understanding aimed at strengthening the national security of both countries and the region as a whole.

5/22 Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus President Rauf Denktas says his government will not negotiate the Cyprus dispute with the Greek Cypriot government if it deploys the S-300PMU-1 missile system. A senior Cypriot officials says that Cyprus will cancel on postpone delivery of the S-300PMU-1s if Turkey withdraws 15,000 of its troops from the island or if Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktas resumes reunification talks with the Greek Cypriot community without setting preconditions. The Cyprus newspaper I Makhi reports that Israeli government, military, and intelligence officials are concerned that the S-300PMU-1's radar system will be activated whenever aircraft take off from Israel.

5/24 The Cypriot newspaper O Filevtheros reports that diplomatic efforts to halt the delivery of the S-300PMU-1s are making little progress, largely due to Turkey's refusal to negotiate on the issue. Foreign military planners are reportedly outlining scenarios for the S-300PMU-1's delivery, including possible Turkish military action.

5/27 US Department of State special envoy to Cyprus Thomas Miller warns Cyprus not to deploy the S-300PMU-1 missiles, saying he believes they are "much more of a magnet to Turkish hostilities than they are a deterrent to Turkish hostilities." Miller also warns Turkey against attacking the missiles, labeling such action as "equally unproductive."

5/31 The Cyprus newspaper O Filevtheros reports that Cyprus and Greece appear ready to discuss having the S-300PMU-1s delivered to Cyprus but not deployed, in exchange for a UN-declared no-fly zone over the island.

6/1 Cypriot government spokesman Khristos Stilianidhis says that a British plan to evacuate up to 250,000 people from the island in the event of hostilities is a "pressure lever for the cancellation and non-delivery" of the S-300PMU-1 missiles. The British defense ministry says that it is only developing contingency plans, and that the claim that the plan envisions evacuating 250,000 people is sensationalist.

6/3 British military forces based in Cyprus stop the Greek cargo ship Raphael to search it for S-300PMU-1 components but find none. Cypriot Defense Minister Ioannis Omirou and Greek Defense Minister Akis Tsokhatzopoulos protest the incident, noting that the British acted without consulting either of them.

6/5 French Defense Minister Alain Richard informs Cypriot Defense Minister Ioannis Omirou that in the absence of a comprehensive agreement for the island's disarmament, France supports Cyprus' intention to accept delivery of the S-300PMU-1s. Richard also says that France intends to continue defense cooperation with Cyprus and is prepared to offer Cyprus new weapon systems as well as assistance in maintaining its current inventory. Russia’s Russkiy Telegraf reports that Cyprus has begun preparing sites for the S-300PMU-1 missiles under the supervision of Russian specialists. The Cypriot government protests low-altitude British helicopter flights over the island, saying that the British are conducting aerial reconnaissance on possible S-300PMU-1 deployment sites.

6/8 The Cyprus newspaper I Simerini reports Russian sources as saying that the creation of a no-fly zone over Cyprus would not constitute sufficient grounds for halting the delivery of the S-300PMU-1s to the island, as it would not represent a significant step towards demilitarization. The Russian sources also say that storing the missiles on Cyprus rather than deploying them would not be acceptable either, because the S-300PMU-1 contract provides for their delivery and installation. Cyprus' O Filevtheros newspaper reports that diplomatic officials believe activity on Cyprus’ political issues will be postponed until September, when US Secretary of State Madeleine Albright may visit Greece and Turkey.

6/9 The Russian newspaper Segodnya reports that S-300PMU-1 missiles have been delivered to Cyprus. A Cypriot government official denies the report, and the US Department of Defense says it has no evidence to confirm the statement. Rosvoorouzhenie, the S-300's marketer, also denies the report, stating that delivery of the missiles will occur as scheduled in late July or early August.

6/10 Russian air force commander Anatoly Kornukov says that Cypriot military officials will arrive in Russia later in the month to test the S-300PMU-1 system at a base near Astrakhan.

6/11 A Russian diplomat says that for technical reasons Russia will postpone delivery of the S-300PMU-1 missiles until late 10/98 or 11/98.

6/15 Turkish customs officials say that they have found seven mobile missile launchers aboard the Maltese-flagged Natasha-1. The ship was stopped as it traveled through the Dardanelles from Russia to Egypt. The ship’s declared cargo included 142 tractors bound for Egypt. Turkish news reports say that customs officials are unable to confirm that the launchers are for the S-300PMU-1 system ordered by Cyprus.

6/16 Four Greek F-16 fighter aircraft land at Cyprus’ Paphos airbase following the 6/15 arrival of a Greek C-130 transport plane. A Cyprus Defense Ministry spokesman says that "the visit is part of the implementation of the common defense doctrine between Cyprus and Greece and an effort to ascertain the readiness of the base." Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktas says that "this is an action that threatens peace and stability and cannot be ignored." A Turkish Foreign Ministry statement says that "the use by Greek planes of the base is an extremely grave and provocative development that is directed to breaking trust and stability on the island and in the region."

6/17 The Turkish Prime Minister, Defense Minister, and senior generals meet to discuss possible responses, including military action, to the 6/16/98 arrival of Greek military aircraft at the Paphos airbase on Cyprus. According to a senior Turkish official, two options discussed were bombing the runway at the Paphos airbase and interdicting future military flights between Cyprus and Greece.

6/19 Turkish Prime Minister Mesut Yilmaz says that "the deployment of Russian missiles in Cyprus would not only disrupt peace in Cyprus but would also upset the general balances in the eastern Mediterranean. This does not concern Turkey alone. Turkey, however, will adopt the countermeasures that concern it without any hesitation."

6/20 Greek Defense Minister Akis Tsokhatzopoulos says that the arrival of Greek military aircraft at Cyprus’ Paphos airbase is within the framework of the training policy of Cyprus and Greece as part of their joint defense doctrine.

6/21 The Greek newspaper To Vima Tis Kiriakis reports that the Cyprus Security Council has decided to delay deployment of the S-300PMU-1 missiles until 10/98 as a gesture of goodwill toward resolving the S-300PMU-1 missile issue. Two hundred Russian military officers reportedly will arrive later in the month to prepare deployment sites for the missiles.

6/23 Cypriot government spokesman Khristos Stilianidhis reports that Cypriot Foreign Minister Ioannis Kasoulidhis is on a campaign to publicize the plan for Cyprus’ demilitarization proposed by Cypriot President Glavkos Clerides to the United Nations. A source close to the Cypriot government says, however, that UN acceptance of the proposed plan would not necessarily mean that the contract for the delivery of the S-300PMU-1 missiles would be cancelled.

6/27 Greek President Costis Stephanopoulos says that Greece will consider boosting defense ties with Cyprus. He says that Greece will "examine the possibility of a qualitative improvement of the joint defense doctrine," which commits Greece to aid Cyprus in the event of renewed hostilities on the island.

6/28 The Sunday Times reports that a recent poll of Greek Cypriots indicates 72% favor deployment of the S-300PMU-1 system, even if doing so leads to war with Turkey and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).

6/29 Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktas says that the TRNC will lengthen runways at its Lefkoniko (Gecitkale) airport for use by the Turkish military.

6/29 The United Nations Security Council adopts Resolutions 1178 and 1179. Resolution 1178 extends the mandate of the United Nations Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) until 31 December 1998. The resolution stresses the importance of Cyprus’ demilitarization as part of an overall settlement of the Cyprus dispute, and reiterates the Security Council’s "grave concern at the continuing excessive and increasing levels of military forces and armaments in the Republic of Cyprus and the rate at which they are being expanded, upgraded and modernized, including by the introduction of sophisticated weaponry, and the lack of progress towards any significant reduction of the number of troops in the Republic of Cyprus, which threatens to raise tensions both on the island and in the region and complicate efforts to negotiate an overall political settlement."

Resolution 1179 reaffirms that "the status quo on Cyprus is unacceptable" and the Security Council’s "position that a Cyprus settlement must be based on a State of Cyprus with a single sovereignty and international personality and a single citizenship, with its independence and territorial integrity safeguarded, and comprising two politically equal communities as described in the relevant Security Council resolutions, in a bi-communal and bi-zonal federation, and that such a settlement must exclude union in whole or in part with any other country or any form of partition or secession."

7/1 The Turkish newspaper Hurriyet reports that due to the tension caused by Cyprus’ S-300PMU-1 purchase, Turkey plans to expedite delivery of the 72 Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) it has ordered from the United States. Forty-two of the 160km-range missiles have already been delivered. Turkey plans to deploy the missiles near border areas in accordance with its defense concept against external threats.

7/4 Russian officials say that delivery of the S-300PMU-1 missiles will be delayed until late fall. The US Clinton administration notifies Congress of a $250 million plan to deliver 14 frigates to Turkey and 11 frigates to Greece over the next two years.

7/6 Russian sources close to the S-300PMU-1 deal tell Interfax that delivery of the missiles to Cyprus will be completed by 1/1/99.

7/8 Cypriot Defense Minister Ioannis Omirou flies to Astrakhan, Russia to observe testing of the S-300PMU-1 system.

7/8 After meeting with Greek Defense Minister Akis Tsohatzopoulos, US Secretary of Defense William Cohen announces that the United States is willing to explore the creation of a no-fly zone over Cyprus in order to halt deployment of the S-300PMU-1 missiles. Cypriot government spokesman Khristos Stilianidhis says that Cyprus welcomes the proposal, and that the creation of a no-fly zone would be part of Cyprus’ common policy and strategy with Greece.

7/9 In opening five days of UN-sponsored negotiations between Greek Cypriot President Glavkos Clerides and Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktas in New York, UN Secretary General Kofi Annan says that an end to Cyprus’ division could be within reach. However, UN officials do not expect any immediate agreements to result from the talks, and Annan warns that "the consequences of failure are likely to be more dire than at any time in recent decades."

7/9 Cypriot military personnel test-fire the S-300PMU-1 system at target rockets from a firing range near Astrakhan, Russia. According to a Russian Defense Ministry spokesman, they "shot down several targets with near 100 percent practice firing efficiency."

7/10 Turkish Prime Minister Mesut Yilmaz says that if the Greek Cypriot government deploys missiles on Cyprus, Turkey will deploy missiles on the Turkish-held part of the island.

7/10 The Turkish newspaper Milliyet reports that US Secretary of State Madeleine Albright proposed that Cyprus purchase shorter-range Russian-built SA-15 surface-to-air missiles, as an alternative to the S-300PMU-1 system. According to the Greek newspaper Exousia, Cypriot president Glavkos Clerides sent a reply to Albright containing three proposals for resolving the crisis. One proposal suggests that delivery of the S-300PMU-1 system be delayed if intercommunal talks resume, and delivery cancelled if such talks make significant progress. According to the second proposal, delivery of the missile system would be delayed if negotiations begin on Cyprus' demilitarization, and the S-300PMU-1 contract would be cancelled if significant progress is made towards demilitarization. Clerides' third proposal is to cancel delivery of the S-300PMU-1 system if a US-or UN-guaranteed no-fly zone is established over Cyprus. Clerides said that if a non-guaranteed no-fly zone is established, the S-300PMU-1 could be delivered to Cyprus but not deployed. Turkish Foreign Ministry spokesman Sermet Atacanli rejects Clerides' proposals, saying that "our stand with regards to the missiles has not changed. We will not engage in any negotiations on the issue." Turkish Deputy Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit also opposes the no-fly zone proposal, saying that "we cannot bargain on our security."

7/14 Israeli and Turkish officials deny press reports that Turkish F-16 fighter aircraft trained in Israel's Negev desert in late June 1998. They were alleged to have practiced attacking surface-to-air missiles. Avi Benayahu, a spokesman for Israeli Defense Minister Yitzhak Mordechai, calls the allegations "total nonsense," and says that Turkish pilot training in Israel is for "humanitarian cooperation." Turkish military officials say that Turkish fighter pilots had been training in Israel, but deny they conducted assault exercises on anti-aircraft missiles. According to Turkey's ATV, the Turkish F-16 aircraft successfully used the latest electronic warfare equipment to neutralize Russian-built missile radars like those deployed with the S-300PMU-1 system. Cyprus' I Simerini newspaper reports that the Turkish aircraft fired Israeli-produced Popeye air-to-ground missiles during the exercises. Greek government spokesman Dimitris Reppas says that if the reports are true, it could damage Greek-Turkish relations and peace and security in the southeast Mediterranean.

7/14 Cyprus' BRTK Television Network reports that Israeli Air Force Commander Eytan Ben-Eliyahu said Israel does not favor any military initiative that changes the existing balance of forces in the region, and that Israel is prepared to take action to preserve the balance.

7/15 In an interview with Jane's Defence Weekly, Cypriot President Glavcos Clerides says that he does not believe his government's decision to purchase 36 S-300PMU-1 surface-to-air missiles will lead to war between Greece and Turkey. Clerides says he has "sent a letter to the UN Secretary General offering to stand-down the National Guard; to hand all my military equipment to the UN; to accept international controls [to ensure] I am not holding any weapons; and to pay the total cost for an increased international force in Cyprus. All the money saved by not purchasing weapons, I would place in a UN account for infrastructure to increase the per capita income of the Turkish-Cypriot community. My proposal was rejected by Turkey." Clerides also states that he has postponed partial delivery of S-300PMU-1 missile system to Cyprus from August to late September 1998.

7/16 NATO Secretary General Xavier Solana says that NATO is prepared to monitor a no-fly zone over Cyprus.

7/17 The Israeli Defense Ministry denies the statement by Israel Air Force Commander Eytan Ben-Eliyahu that Israel is considering an attack on the S-300PMU-1 system if it is deployed on Cyprus. The Israeli embassy in Cyprus says that Israel has no involvement in the deployment of the S-300PMU-1 system, and does not consider it a threat.

7/17 A report in Russia's Ruskiy Telegraf states that Russia has decided to transport the S-300PMU-1 system to Cyprus escorted by a Russian navy fleet sailing from the Atlantic Ocean through the Strait of Gibraltar en route to exercises in the Indian Ocean. The missile frigate Peter the Great and aircraft carrier Admiral Kuznetsov will form part of the fleet, which is scheduled to remain in Cyprus temporarily to perform protective duties while the S-300PMU-1 system is deployed. According to the report, Russia has abandoned plans to ship the missile via the Black Sea and Bosporus to avoid escalating tension with Turkey. Russia's NTV reports that the missiles will arrive fully assembled in August 1998.

7/18 Cypriot president Glavkos Clerides says that despite a US law banning arms sales to Cyprus, Turkish forces on the island have recently been reinforced with "heavy self-propelled guns, various types of tanks, and armored personnel-carrying vehicles and other modern armaments built in the United States."

7/19 Turkey deploys six warships and a squadron of military aircraft to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) as part of ceremonies commemorating the anniversary of its 1974 invasion of Cyprus. The Cypriot government accuses Turkey of threatening peace on the island, while Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktas says that he plans to increase cooperation between the TRNC and Turkey.

7/24 Achilles Paparsenos, spokesman for the Greek Embassy in the United States, says that in September 1998 Greece will purchase an unspecified number of either the US-produced MIM-104 Patriot or the Russian S-300PMU-1 air-defense missile system.

7/27 Greek Prime Minister Konstandinos Simitis says that the final decision on the S-300PMU-1 system can be made only by Cypriot President Glavkos Clerides. Simitis had earlier accused Clerides of "deciding to buy the S-300PMU-1 missiles without thoroughly considering the situation," and was apparently angered by Clerides' suggestion that a decision to delay or cancel the delivery of the missiles should be reached jointly by the Greek National Council and Cypriot leaders.

7/28 Cypriot President Glavkos Clerides and Foreign Minister Ioannis Kasoulidhis respond favorably to US State Department envoy Thomas Miller's proposal to establish a moratorium on Greek and Turkish military flights over Cyprus. According to the proposal, British bases on Cyprus would monitor air activity over the island, relaying information to Greek and Turkish military officials at NATO air force headquarters in Naples, Italy. If the moratorium were violated, a report would be issued to NATO headquarters. According to US government sources, because Greece and Turkey are NATO members, the United States could not shoot down their aircraft even if they violate the flight moratorium.

7/31 The Turkish news agency Anatolia reports that radar components of the S-300PMU-1 system have arrived on Cyprus. Dervish Eroglu, a Turkish government official quoted in the report, says that the missiles for the system have not yet arrived.

8/3 As part of an effort to generate funding for US defense procurement, the US Congress approves a plan to sell 14 surplus naval ships to Turkey and 11 to Greece. Several representatives criticize the plan, noting that tension between Greece and Turkey is high. Representative Doug Bereuter of Nebraska says that given their recent arms purchases "you certainly would wonder about providing them more firepower." New York Representative Benjamin A. Gilman criticizes the plan as "a new military foreign aid program" for Greece and Turkey. Wisconsin Representative David R. Obey says that "I think it is an incredibly ill-advised action to provide these ships to Turkey and Greece, given what is happening in the Aegean. I think it sends exactly the wrong signal to both sides." Obey also objects to the plan on the grounds that "under this approach, the more sophisticated weapons the Pentagon can sell to other countries, the more it can spend on its own weaponry."

8/4 Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktas tells visiting Russian envoy Vladimir Tchizov that once the S-300PMU-1 system is deployed on Cyprus, any action taken against it cannot be considered as directed against Russia.

8/5 The Cypriot House of Representatives approves a bill to increase the country's defense levy from a three percent income tax to four percent tax. The increased revenues are expected to provide an additional $80 million for the defense budget. House speaker Spyros Kyprianou says that the bill "sends the message that the people of Cyprus and their representatives are determined to back all efforts for the island's defense, for as long as Turkey continues to occupy part of Cyprus and continues its threats."

8/6 Russian ambassador to Greece Valentina Matvienko tells Greek Deputy Foreign Minister Yannos Kranidiotis that Russia will guarantee safe transport of the S-300PMU-1 system to Cyprus.

8/5 The Cypriot House of Representatives approves a bill to increase the country's defense levy from a 3% income tax to a 4% tax. The new revenue is expected to provide an additional $80 million for the defense budget. House speaker Spyros Kyprianou says that the bill "sends the message that the people of Cyprus and their representatives are determined to back all efforts for the island's defense, for as long as Turkey continues to occupy part of Cyprus and continues its threats."

8/5 Cypriot President Glavkos Clerides says that due to Italy's suspension of delivery of Aspide surface-to-air missiles to Cyprus, negotiations are under way to purchase medium-range missiles from Greece.

8/5 Cyprus' I Simerini newspaper reports that Russian officials told Cypriot President Glavkos Clerides during his visit to Moscow that they will support Cyprus' deployment of the S-300PMU-1 system and veto any United Nations effort to extend diplomatic recognition to the Turkish-occupied region of Cyprus.

8/6 Russian ambassador to Greece Valentina Matvienko tells Greek Deputy Foreign Minister Yannos Kranidiotis that Russia will guarantee safe transport for the S-300PMU-1 system to Cyprus.

8/19 Turkey rejects a proposal by US special envoy to Cyprus Thomas Miller to impose a moratorium on military flights over Cyprus in exchange for delaying the Cypriot government's deployment of the S-300PMU-1 air-defense missile system. Turkish Foreign Ministry spokesman Necati Utkan says that "our position is that we will not allow anything to be used as a bargaining chip on the S-300s. The S-300s are the Greek Cypriots problem. They created it and they have to solve it." According to Turkish sources, the moratorium would reward the Cypriot government for delaying the S-300PMU-1 system's deployment. Greek Deputy Foreign Minister Yannos Kranidiotis says that Turkey's rejection of Miller's proposal is "very disappointing."

8/19 Officials of Cyprus' Foreign Ministry confer with representatives of the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council and the chief of the United Nations Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) concerning an alleged buildup of Turkish forces on Cyprus.

8/20 Turkey's Milliyet newspaper reports that Cyprus and Greece are planning to delay deployment of the S-300PMU-1 system on Cyprus until after Turkish general elections in April 1999. Cyprus' interim charge d'affaires in Moscow, Sophoclis Sophocli, says that although the S-300PMU-1 system was originally due to arrive in Cyprus between mid-July and mid-August, none of its components have been deployed on the island.

8/21 Referring to the delivery of the S-300PMU-1 system to Cyprus, Cypriot President Glavkos Clerides says that "we have not made any plans for a postponement."

8/21 Turkey's Cumhuriyet newspaper reports that Russia has informed the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) that it does not intend to retaliate if Turkish forces attack the S-300PMU-1 system purchased by Cyprus.

8/24 Greek Foreign Minister Theodoros Pangalos says that the S-300PMU-1 issue only concerns Cyprus. He also urges the United States to pressure Turkey to remove US-produced arms deployed in the Turkish-occupied area of Cyprus.

8/25 Turkish patrol boats fire on two Greek Cypriot fishing boats approximately 2km off Cyprus, after the boats crossed the maritime security zone patrolled by the United Nations. No injuries were reported, although several bullets hit the two vessels. The UN peacekeeping mission strongly protested the Turkish military's resort to force, and UN spokesperson Fred Eckhard cautioned that such behavior could lead to "tragic events."

8/26 Greek government spokesman Christos Stylianides says that Foreign Minister Pangalos' statement on 8/24 was in support of Cyprus' plan to deploy the S-300PMU-1 system, and did not indicate that Greece's support for the plan was weakening. According to Stylianides, "there has been no overturning, at any point, of the essence of the common strategic course of Greece and Cyprus."

8/26 Two Turkish RF-4 Phantom reconnaissance aircraft fly around the island of Cyprus. According to Cyprus' O Logos Television Network, their mission was to photograph the Paphos air-base and other sensitive installations. A second pair of Turkish RF-4 aircraft flies from Morphou to the Apostolos Andreas area of Cyprus, reportedly escorted by Turkish fighter aircraft.

8/27 Cypriot and Greek leaders say that the S-300PMU-1 system will be deployed on Cyprus in November. Cypriot President Glavcos Clerides has reportedly been threatened by his main coalition supporters that they will demand his resignation if he fails to carry out his 2/98 campaign pledge to deploy the S-300PMU-1 system on Cyprus. Greek Prime Minister Costas Simitis denies reports that deployment would be postponed, and says, "the government of Cyprus, with the support of Greece, will take whatever measures are necessary for its defense." Turkish President Suleyman Demirel warns against the deployment, saying "you may start a war but you may not control it."

8/28 ITAR-TASS news agency reports that a Russian navy spokesperson described as "groundless" prior reports that Russian naval ships would deliver the S-300PMU-1 system to Cyprus while en route to military exercises with the Indian navy.

8/31 Stelios Alifandis, special advisor to the Greek Ministry of Defense, says that Greece will provide protection for the delivery of the S-300PMU-1 system to Cyprus. Alifandis also says that Greek Cypriot President Glavcos Clerides and Greek Prime Minister Costas Simitis have agreed that Greece should reinforce Cyprus' military forces.

8/31 Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktas proposes creation of a confederation of two equal states on Cyprus. He says that he will resume reunification talks with the Cypriot government if it agrees to his proposal, and that "the ultimate aim of negotiations should be a settlement that will be a confederal structure of two peoples and two sovereign states."

9/1 Cypriot President Glavcos Clerides replies to Denktas' confederation proposal by saying that "under no circumstances can Mr. Rauf Denktas' proposal form a basis for talks as it is unacceptable right from the start."

9/4 The Berlin Information Center for Transatlantic Security (BITS) and the British American Security Information Council (BASIC) publish excerpts of a US Department of State report on the S-300PMU-1 surface-to-air missile system compiled by the US Army Missile and Space Intelligence Center. The January 1998 report states, "the bottom line is that, though technically feasible, it would be highly improbable that Nicosia would use the SA-10C [S-300PMU-1] for a SSM [surface-to-surface] role." It also states that "the maximum effective range for the SA-10C [S-300PMU-1] as a SSM would be 30km - far short of reaching the Turkish mainland or even Turkish Cypriot units on Cyprus."

9/5 Turkish Deputy Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit says that Denktas' confederation proposal is "the last chance for the Greek Cypriot administration to accept a fair and lasting solution for Cyprus."

9/8 Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktas advises the Cypriot government to reconsider his confederation proposal, saying "no matter how much you arm your part of the island, you are doomed to be crushed by the 65-million-strong Turkey, should a war erupt."

9/9 Cypriot Defense Minister Ioannis Omirou says that "there is no truth in the reports" claiming that the terms of the S-300PMU-1 contract with Russia have been modified. The Cypriot newspaper I Simerini reported that a new contract containing two alternative delivery dates had been negotiated with Russia. According to the I Simerini report, one proposal was to have the missile system delivered in 11/98, while the second alternative was to have the system delivered by the end of 12/98 or stored in Russia at Cyprus' expense. I Simerini claimed that Cypriot President Glavcos Clerides had told the Cypriot National Guard that delivery of the S-300PMU-1 system should be delayed until Cyprus' anti-aircraft defenses had been strengthened with medium-range surface-to-air missiles.

9/9 The Greek newspaper Exousia reports on the US Department of State study of the S-300PMU-1 surface-to-air missile system purchased by Cyprus. The study concludes that the S-300PMU-1 could only be converted for use as a surface-to-surface missile (SSM) system by facilities in Russia, and that it would not be "capable of carrying a nuclear, thermal, or biological warhead." US ambassador to Cyprus Richard Holbrooke reportedly used the report during discussions with Cypriot government officials as well as providing it to NATO.

9/10 Greek Deputy Defense Minister Dimitris Apostolakis warns Turkey that "all acts of war against Cyprus will be considered an act of war against Greece." He adds that war between Greece and Turkey "would destabilize the region and would be disastrous for both Greece and Turkey economically and politically and would solve nothing."

9/11 Cypriot Defense Minister Ioannis Omirou informs Cyprus' parliamentary defense committee that at the end of 10/98, Cyprus will immediately purchase SA-15 surface-to-air missiles from Russia if Italy is still blocking the export of Aspide surface-to-air missiles to the island. The additional Aspide missiles that Cyprus is seeking are believed to cost approximately $54 million, while the Russian SA-15 missiles would cost around $120 million. Cypriot military officials told the parliamentary committee that deploying either before the arrival of the S-300PMU-1 system is not absolutely necessary.

9/15 British Defense Minister Geoffrey Robertson reiterates his country's opposition to Cyprus' intention to deploy the S-300PMU-1 system, and says that Britain is "willing to monitor" a moratorium on Greek and Turkish military flights over Cyprus if both countries agree to the moratorium. Robertson also signs a memorandum of understanding with Turkish Minister of Defense Ismet Sezgin for cooperation between British and Turkish defense industries.

9/16 Turkish Foreign Ministry spokesman Necati Utkan says that "proposals put forward for these [S-300PMU-1] missiles to be delivered and kept in warehouses are not acceptable to Turkey." He adds, "what's acceptable for Turkey is only the outright cancellation of the order for these missiles. But this step alone would not suffice. To really reduce the tension on the island, the Greek Cypriot mutual defense pact with Greece must be abandoned and the air and naval bases in southern Cyprus must be put out of service."

9/18 Responding to Turkey's call for Cyprus to cancel delivery of the S-300PMU-1 system and terminate its joint defense doctrine with Greece, Cypriot government spokesman Christos Stylianides says that "if Ankara wants the installation of arms systems in Cyprus to be delayed or the alliances cancelled, the only answer is Cyprus' demilitarization. Otherwise, it is meaningless for the Turks to dictate how to protect ourselves when they are maintaining an occupation army and violating the guarantees treaties."

9/24 In an interview with the Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation scheduled to air on 7 October 1998, Aleksey Arbatov, Alternate President of the Russian Duma's Defense Committee, says that Russia would consider any Turkish interference with the delivery of the S-300PMU-1 surface-to-air missile system to Cyprus as an act of war. According to Arbatov, Russia could ratify a decision to react militarily within 24 hours of any Turkish action. However, he said because Russia has no security agreements with Cyprus, it would react politically rather than militarily if Turkish forces attack the missile system after it has been installed on Cyprus. Arbatov also comments that Russia supports a unified Cyprus, and believes that safeguarding its integrity is vital to maintaining stability in the region.

9/24 UN Security Council representatives from China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States issue a joint communiqué calling for early resumption of negotiations on a settlement of the Cyprus problem and for the parties concerned to avoid any action that might increase tension regarding the issue.

9/25 Cypriot President Glavkos Clerides responds to the UN Security Council joint communiqué of 9/24. He invites Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktas to renew efforts to end the division of Cyprus, and pledges to refrain from taking any action that might increase tensions over the issue. Clerides does not, however, make any direct reference to Cyprus' plan to deploy the S-300PMU-1 surface-to-air missile system on the island later in 1998.

9/27 Cyprus formally becomes the 116th State Party to the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). The Cypriot government deposited its instrument of ratification with Secretary General of the UN, in his capacity as Depositary of the Convention, on 8/28/98. Turkey ratified the CWC on 12/5/97, and Greece did so on 12/22/94.

9/29 Greek military officials announce that Greece and Turkey will both participate in NATO military exercises in the eastern Mediterranean beginning on 10/1/98. In the past the two countries refused to participate in exercises, due to disputes over Cyprus and other issues. According to the Greek officials, Greek and Turkish forces will not operate in the same areas during the exercise and will not enter each other's territory.

9/29 The Greek Cypriot newspaper O Filelevtheros reports that the United States plans to seek a direct agreement with the Cypriot government to delay deployment of the S-300PMU-1 missile system on the island. According to O Filelevtheros, on 9/27 US Department of State envoy Thomas Miller said that Cyprus has ordered only two batteries of the S-300PMU-1 missile system, but that it would need 75 batteries for the system to be militarily effective.

10/1 Greek Cypriots celebrate Cyprus' 38th year of independence with a military parade including tanks, anti-ship missiles, and armored personnel carriers. Greek Defense Minister Akis Tsohatzopoulos is present for the celebrations.

10/2 Concluding a three-day visit to Cyprus, Greek Defense Minister Akis Tsohatzopoulos says that Greek military aircraft will participate in Cyprus' annual Niceforos military exercises later in the month. Tsohatzopoulos says that Greek participation in the exercises will reaffirm the two countries' joint defense doctrine and show that "this cooperation is not devoid of content. It is based on specific deeds and actions." He also says, "the people of Cyprus should feel vindicated after Thursday's [10/1/98] military parade which proved the effectiveness and power of the Cyprus Republic's armed forces."

10/2 Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktas says that the Greek Cypriot government plans to delay deployment of the S-300PMU-1 missile system on the island until the end of 1998, so as not to interfere with a new round of UN-sponsored talks to resolve the Cyprus question. Reuter's reports an unidentified source familiar with the S-300PMU-1 missile issue as saying that Cypriot President Glavkos Clerides informed United Nations Secretary General Koffi Annan of the postponement in late 9/98.

10/2 Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktas says that he will cooperate with a new round of UN shuttle diplomacy on the Cyprus question which could include withdrawing troops from some military positions on the island. Denktas, saying that he made a similar proposal 18 months earlier, says he accepted the shuttle diplomacy proposal "in order to start some confidence-building measures."

10/3 The Greek newspaper Exousia reports that Italy may reverse its decision to halt delivery of Aspide surface-to-air missiles (SAMs) to Cyprus. According to Exousia, the Italian government is being pressured by Alenia, the Aspide's manufacturer, to reverse its decision so the company will not suffer financial losses and will be able to participate in a Greek tender for medium-range missiles. Under the terms of Alenia's contract with Cyprus, if the Aspide missiles are not delivered to the island by the end of 10/98, the Cypriot government will declare the contract cancelled. According to Exousia, Russia is prepared to deliver and install Russian-built SAMs on Cyprus within two to three months, if the contract with Alenia is cancelled. A Turkish Foreign Ministry official reportedly warned Italy on 10/2 not to deliver the Aspide missiles to Cyprus.

10/3 UN envoy to Cyprus Ann Hercus announces that a new round of UN-sponsored talks to resolve the Cyprus dispute will commence. Hercus says the talks will not be open to media coverage and will begin without an agenda or deadline. Hercus also says that Cypriot President Glavkos Clerides and Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktas have agreed to hold separate "confidential discussions" with her, and that the process could take several weeks.

10/4 Cypriot Defense Minister Ioannis Omirou says that the joint defense doctrine with Greece is designed to address a specific threat from Turkey, and that "as soon as this threat ceases to exist, our goal, of course, will be to merge all our forces and abilities in a wider, regional security system."

10/5 The US Department of Defense (DoD) announces the sale of six E-2C Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) mission systems to Greece. The AEW&C systems will be fitted in either US-built E-2C Hawkeye or C-130J aircraft and will support Greece's efforts to modernize its air-defense forces. The proposed $380 million deal also includes spare and repair parts as well as training and technical support services. According to the DoD, "this sale will not adversely affect either the military balance in the region or US efforts to encourage a negotiated settlement of the Cyprus question."

10/6 After meeting Cypriot Defense Minister Ioannis Omirou at the Defendory '98 International arms show in Athens, Greece, Russian Defense Ministery Igor Sergeyev says that Russia "will fulfill the terms of the contract" with Cyprus for the S-300PMU-1 missile system and guarantee its safe delivery. Omirou tells reporters that he did not discuss deployment of the S-300PMU-1 missile system with Sergeyev, who is expected to meet with Greek Defense Minister Akis Tsokhatzopoulos and possibly with Greek Prime Minister Costas Simitis on 10/7.

10/8 In response to a statement by US Senator Alfonse D'Amato that Turkey has deployed US-supplied arms on Cyprus in violation of US law, the US Department of State acknowledges that for the last three months it has been conducting a "comprehensive, in-depth investigation into the possibility that that [sic] US military equipment may have been transferred improperly to Cyprus, including by Turkey and Greece." Under the Department of State's Bureau of Politico-Military Affairs Public Notice 1738 of 12/9/92, "it is the policy of the US government to deny all applications for licenses and other approvals to export or otherwise transfer defense articles and services to any of the armed forces in Cyprus. The US Government opposes such exports because of their ability to contribute to an arms race on the island and hinder UN and US efforts to reach a fair and permanent settlement of the Cyprus dispute." According to D'Amato, Turkey has deployed more than 200 US-supplied tanks, 400 armored personnel carriers, TOW anti-tank missiles, and self-propelled howitzers in northern Cyprus. Unidentified US officials said that the Department of State investigation was taking longer than expected, due to slow cooperation from Greece and Turkey.

10/9 Greek Defense Minister Akis Tsohatzopoulos announces that Greece will purchase four batteries of MIM-104 Patriot surface-to-air missile (SAM) systems for $1.2 billion from the US firm Raytheon. Greece reportedly has an option to buy a total of six Patriot batteries, and will undertake joint production with Raytheon. Raytheon has also signed a $145 million contract to upgrade Greece's MIM-23 HAWK air-defense system to the Phase III Configuration. The upgrade will provide immediate interoperability between the Hawk and Patriot systems. Greece has also reportedly contracted to buy Russian SA-15 SAM systems and $685 million worth of French Crotale SAM systems.

Sources:

1. Information on the history of Cyprus is drawn from "Cyprus: History," Britannica Online, [Online] http://www.eb.com:180/. Text of UN Security Council resolutions is available online at: http://www.un.org/Docs/scres/1998/9818625E.htm, and http://www.un.org/Docs/scres/1998/9818637E.htm.

   This chronology of the S-300PMU-1 dispute is based on news articles published by AFX News, Agence France Presse, Alithia, Anatolia, Associated Press, ATV, Boston Globe, British American Security Information Council, Business Wire, CNN, Cumhuriet, Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation, Cyprus Mail, Cyprus Weekly, DefenseLINK, Defense News, Deutsche Presse-Agentur, Elevtheros Tipos, Elevtherotipia, Elliniki Radhiofonia Radio Network, Exousia, Federal Register, Financial Times, Globes, Ha’aretz, Hurriyet, Independent, I Makhi, Interfax, International Herald Tribune, ITAR-TASS, I Simerini, Izvestia, Jamestown Monitor, Jane’s Defence Weekly, Jane's Intelligence Review, Jerusalem Post, Kaleidoscope, Kommersant Daily, Middle East International, Milliyet, New York Times, NTV, O Agon, O Filevtheros, O Logos, Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, Russkiy Telegraf, Segodnya, Sunday Times, Reuters, Toronto Star, To Vima Tis Kiriakis, Turkish Daily News, Washington Times, Xinhua, and Yeni Yuzyil.

   Data from these sources regarding the S-300PMU-1 sale to Cyprus are included in the International Missile Database of the Center for Nonproliferation Studies (CNS). This database contains over 8,500 abstracts regarding international sales and development of ballistic and cruise missiles, missile-defense systems, and missile components and technologies. Access to the full collection is only available by subscription. For subscription information click here.

Michael Barletta and Erik Jorgensen, October 1998.
© Center for Nonproliferation Studies,
Monterey Institute of International Studies