The Open University of Cyprus (OUC) is actively participating in the development of significant high-technology systems «Drone Eye» project.
The Open University of Cyprus is involved in this national-priority and highly significant defence project, which focuses on the development of unmanned systems (drones) and electronic counter-UAS technologies under the Drone Eye initiative, implemented within the framework of the ATHENA program. The project, which marks a new phase in the technological advancement of the National Guard, is funded by the Ministry of Defence and is carried out in collaboration with the Cypriot company Encorp and Frederick University.
The result is a fully integrated anti-drone system, vehicle-mounted and entirely manufactured in Cyprus. It features target-tracking capabilities, can be integrated into a broader Command and Control (C2) system, and is accompanied by a portable anti-drone device developed in parallel. Both systems were presented on 10 November 2025 in the presence of the Minister of Defence, Mr. Vasilis Palmas, the Ministry’s Director General, Mr. Elikkos Elias, and members of the Parliamentary Committee on Defence.
The project also contributes to strengthening the Greece-Cyprus defense partnership under the SAFE – Security in Europe program, funded by the European Union, which aims to reinforce Europe’s security and defense capabilities. Within this context, particular emphasis is placed on further developing the defense industry in Cyprus and Greece, with projects designed to enhance domestic industrial capacity and reduce dependence on external defense sources. Counter-UAS technologies are a top priority for both countries, and-as the Minister of Defence highlighted-such systems ‘can act as a force multiplier and serve as a deterrent asset in the National Guard’s arsenal, strengthening Cyprus’s autonomy and independence.’