The Ministry of Defence (MOD) has announced a £1 million contract tender for enhanced security infrastructure at RAF Akrotiri, Cyprus, as part of the AETHER Phase 3 programme.
The project, scheduled to run from May to December 2025, focuses on upgrading security fence lines and associated systems to bolster the base’s operational security.
According to the tender notice, the contract will involve replacing existing security fences, installing new gates, and constructing concrete bases for CCTV and lighting poles. Additional works include laying new power cables, constructing concrete pits, and implementing updated fence earthing systems. The scope covers two facilities within RAF Akrotiri: PSD (Primary Security Detail) and CJSU (Combined Joint Support Unit).
The project also mandates the maintenance of detailed records of rubble waste and recyclable materials removed during the works. Environmental considerations include topsoil management and tree trimming or cutting under the supervision of the Environmental Advisor.
Timeline and Key Dates
The project follows a structured timeline:
- Expression of Interest Submission: Opens 13 December 2024 and closes 18 December 2024.
- Invitation to Tender: 14 January 2025.
- Tender Submission Deadline: 10 February 2025.
- Contract Award and Material Orders: 17 March 2025.
- Work Period: 19 May 2025 to 19 December 2025.
Contractors must adhere to specific environmental protocols, including:
- Excavating topsoil to an average depth of 150mm and redistributing it post-project.
- Tree management under the guidance of Ground Maintenance (CSP JV).
Additionally, all works must align with operational requirements at RAF Akrotiri, and the schedule may be adjusted to accommodate site limitations.
The MOD has indicated that the project is suitable for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The contract will be managed in Euros (€), reflecting the project’s location in Cyprus.
RAF Akrotiri is a strategic British Forces base in Cyprus, supporting operations in the Eastern Mediterranean and the wider Middle East. Enhancing security infrastructure at the base is part of the MOD’s ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and efficiency of its overseas installations.
Interested parties must submit completed Expression of Interest (EOI) and Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ) forms by 18 December 2024 to be considered for the tender. Further details will be provided to shortlisted bidders following positive expressions of interest.
Some proper HAS would be handy.
This must be the most exposed airbase we have to a missile and drone attack however, I fear it will cost considerably more than this budget.
None of those works detailed in the article look to me to be about protecting from missile or drone attacks.
You would think that a base that is a launching point for Middle East assaults it would be protected more.
It’ll be closing then!
With Lammy and Starmer? Anything is possible.
Something to defend against missile or drone attack might be nice to have. Not sure why I have that feeling, can’t quite put my finger on it…
With Hezbollah neutralized by Israel at least for a time that risk is diminished*, but Houthis are an issue.
*Not completely, can still be fired the odd rocket/drone from Lebanon or Syria.
This is going to be crucial given the political instability likely to engulf Syria in the coming years. Ideally, Sky Sabre would be permanently deployed to the base, equipped with at least CAMM-ER and potentially CAMM-MR given that ballistic missiles will be a likely mode of attack on the base. I’m sure the Cypriots would appreciate a little more protection, though they have their own air defence system as well.
Dragon Fire seems to be proceeding nicely, and introducing that into the defensive mix would be efficient, given that the other major threat profile in this area is small, slow suicide drones. Maybe something to replace the Stormer HVM as well. A Boxer variant or the VAMTAC mounted launchers would fit well.
Yes, fences and CCTV are very effective against drone and missile attacks….laughable.
So, let me get this straight. There’s no point in military bases having fences as the only attacks they will ever suffer in the future are from missiles and drones. OK. That will save a bit, and think of all that recycled wire. And you can stand down the boundary patrols too. That saves some person power. What worries me, however is this: how will service personnel, perhaps the worse for wear after a night out, ever find their way to the main gate without a fence to follow?
Ok better security 1 Million for a fence , now how about threats from the Air 🤔 Sky Sabre comes to mind again 🙄
About time treaty with Cyprus should be renegotiated to alow brits to live on SBAs, buy houses and permanenItly live as Brits on British territory.8