The Dhekelia Airfield is a British military airfield located in the Eastern Sovereign Base Area (ESBA) of Dhekelia, on the island of Cyprus. It is part of the Sovereign Base Areas of Akrotiri and Dhekelia, a British Overseas Territory established in 1960.[1] [2]
| Dhekelia Airfield | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Part of British Forces Cyprus | |||||||
| Dhekelia in Sovereign Base Areas of Akrotiri and Dhekelia, Cyprus | |||||||
  Dhekelia Airfield  Dhekelia Airfield  Dhekelia Airfield | |||||||
| Coordinates | 34°59′39″N 33°44′57″E / 34.99417°N 33.74917°E | ||||||
| Type | Military airfield | ||||||
| Site information | |||||||
| Owner | Ministry of Defence | ||||||
| Operator | British Armed Forces | ||||||
| Condition | Operational | ||||||
| Site history | |||||||
| In use | 1960 – present | ||||||
| Airfield information | |||||||
| |||||||
History
editDhekelia Airfield was established following the independence of Cyprus in 1960 as part of the agreements in the Treaty of Establishment. British military missions in the Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East have relied heavily on the support provided by the airfield.[1]
Cold War Era
editDuring the Cold War, Dhekelia Airfield was used primarily for reconnaissance and surveillance operations. Its strategic location allowed for monitoring of activities in the Middle East and supported various NATO operations in the region.
Modern operations
editIn recent years, Dhekelia Airfield has supported numerous operations, including training exercises and logistical support. The airfield continues to be an asset for the British Armed Forces, for rapid deployment and operational readiness.
Facilities and operations
editThe airfield features a single asphalt runway (02/20) and is primarily used by helicopters from the Army Air Corps. The facilities at Dhekelia Airfield support a wide range of military activities, including training, logistics, and emergency support.[2]
Community and amenities
editDhekelia Garrison includes a variety of amenities for military personnel and their families. These amenities include:[1]
- King Richard School: Provides comprehensive secondary education following the UK curriculum.
- Recreational Facilities: Gymnasium, swimming pool, cinema, and other recreational facilities ensure a high quality of life for those stationed at the garrison.
- Community Services: Shops, banks, and a post office are available within the garrison to support the community's needs.
Archaeological and environmental considerations
editDhekelia is home to several archaeological sites, which are actively protected through collaboration between British Forces Cyprus and the Republic of Cyprus Department of Antiquities.[3] Recent surveys have rediscovered numerous ancient sites, including quarries and tombs, from various historical periods. Environmental measures are also in place to protect local wildlife.[4]
Development projects
editIn 2023, a £48 million housing project was initiated to construct new residences for service personnel and their families at Dhekelia. This project is part of the APOLLO programme, aimed at modernizing infrastructure and accommodation across British military bases in Cyprus.[5]
References
edit- ^ a b c "British forces overseas posting: Dhekelia, Cyprus". gov.uk. 21 May 2013. Retrieved 5 June 2024.
- ^ a b "The World Factbook (2023 Archive)". CIA. Retrieved 5 June 2024.
- ^ "Ancient Sites Rediscovered at British Bases". cyprus-mail.com. 12 March 2024. Retrieved 5 June 2024.
- ^ "Lost tombs and quarries rediscovered on British military base in Cyprus". sciencedaily.com. Retrieved 5 June 2024.
- ^ "The World Factbook (2023 Archive)". in-cyprus.philenews.com. Retrieved 5 June 2024.