Foreign fighter jets spotted flying over Nicosia in Cyprus

Witnesses from Arediou and Klirou, villages within the Nicosia region, reported seeing fighter jets fly over on Monday evening and Tuesday morning, reported SigmaLive Greek.

According to witnesses who spoke to SigmaLive, the fighter jets were heading towards Morphou Bay.

SigmaLive contacted Cyprus’ Civil Aviation Department, and a spokesperson confirmed they were “aware” and the competent authorities had given approval for the jets to fly within the Republic’s flight information region (FIR).

SigmaLive also contacted the Republic’s Foreign Ministry, which also confirmed that the jets had legally entered Cyprus’ airspace.

The Foreign Ministry confirmed that these flights were “isolated” and that “there is no cause for concern” as the flights met all the required specifications and security protocols.

No confirmation was given as to which country’s military the jets belong to and their reason for the flights.

INTERNATIONAL MILITARY ON CYPRUS

France’s flagship navy carrier, Charles de Gaulle, docked in Limassol on October 16 as it joined in the international military operation to recapture Mosul, Iraq from so-called Islamic State terrorists.

The Charles de Gaulle is France’s first nuclear-powered surface vessel, and is the only nuclear-powered carrier outside the US Navy.

The carrier is equipped with 24 Rafale fighter aircraft, two Hawkeye planes, one Atlantique 2 maritime patrol aircraft and four military helicopters.

In August British Tornado and Typhoon aircraft stationed at Cyprus-based RAF Akrotiri were pounding IS targets ahead of the major offensive by Iraqi and international security forces in Mosul

Air Commodore Sammy Sampson said eight Tornado and six Typhoon aircraft flying from RAF Akrotiri destroyed numerous IS targets to pave the way for the start of the advance.

Read more here.

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