On Friday, August 16th, 2024, a joint Search and Rescue (SAR) exercise called "CYFRA 05/24" was conducted by Cyprus and France.

The exercise is under the framework of the defense cooperation program between the two countries and was conducted in a sea area within the Search and Rescue Region of the Republic of Cyprus under the coordination of the Joint Rescue Coordination Center. The exercise was executed with the participation of the French Ship “LANGUEDOC” with her organic helicopter NH90, a Bell 412 helicopter from the Cyprus Police Aviation Unit of Cyprus Police, as well as a “MEDEVAC” Specialized Team of the Ambulance Service of the State Health Services Organization.

The main goal of the exercise was to improve further the long-lasting cooperation in SAR matters between the Republic of Cyprus and the French Republic’s aeronautical forces and to train the SAR assets and crews on the operational procedures followed during joint rescue operations.

SAREX "CYFRA 05/24" is the 5th joint training in 2024 between Cyprus and France focusing on Search and Rescue.