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
With the cost of things then that really gets them a bit of security wire covering a couple hundred yards at best. This base is vast compared to many others. If you want to take out such a base out you would use a small tac nuc which most of the Worlds nutters currently don’t have. This is more to stop the local goats getting in to feast on the CO’s roses…………………. Clearly the RAF didn’t learn any lessons over the last 20 odd years on Ops.
If you want to take out an airbase simply take out one of the key parts of infrastructure that support it. Runways, fuel, ammo, bowling alley, go-kart track etc.
The funding will support critical infrastructure upgrades to ensure the base remains secure and operational. This effort highlights ongoing UK defense priorities and their focus on maintaining and improving the security of strategic overseas installations.
My concern with Akrotiri is attack from the sea, off of Cape Gata, by Drones launched from any vessel available.
We forget about the HQ in Episkopi Garrison.
Civvy roads go through it.
As for Akrotiri, the perimeter is huge.
Forget drones and nukes – it will be some muppet with a back pack walking into accomodation, or club.
Yes, but that could be said of army Garrisons in the UK too. I believe the areas of Episkopi Garrison that count are also fenced off in the standard fashion.
Agree on your back pack comment. Such is undefendable within realistic constraints.
It’s Turkey! They’re covetous of the whole of Cyprus. If NATO and the EU crack (which is a legitimate possibility with Trump) Turkey is going to make a snatch. Guaranteed.
We need all eyes on them alongside Russia.
[Turkey is primed to screw NATO at any point of weakness, and Cyprus is where it’ll go down]
Getting ready for giving it away are we?
Can we not issue simple projects like this to the Royal Engineers, to keep the money in house? There will be reservists that are Site Managers etc.
Cyprus just got Barak-MX from IAI, I don’t think additional air defense will be needed if its already operational
Investing in upgrading the security of RAF bases is crucial, especially in areas with strategic importance like Cyprus. This move highlights the UK’s commitment to ensuring the safety and readiness of its military operations abroad.