During its 2025 Independence Day celebrations in Nicosia, Cyprus showcased Serbian-designed Tamnava multiple rocket launchers, underscoring growing defense ties with Belgrade and advancing its artillery modernization plans.
The parade featured three launchers fitted with 122 mm rocket pods, which provide a strike radius of about 40 km. The Tamnava can also employ 262 mm rockets with a range of up to 70 km, significantly boosting stand-off capability. Unlike the original Serbian models, the Cypriot systems are integrated onto German MAN TGS 8×8 trucks, reflecting a preference for compatibility with existing European platforms and potentially more efficient logistics support.
While the National Guard has not officially confirmed fleet numbers, defense analysts suggest Cyprus may have received at least six units. Only three were presented publicly, leaving open whether the remainder are in operational testing or withheld for strategic reasons. The display validates earlier unconfirmed reports of the purchase and adds Cyprus to the small circle of European operators of advanced modular MLRS systems.
The Tamnava, developed by Serbia’s state-owned Yugoimport SDPR, is a next-generation multiple launch rocket system featuring a dual-pod, modular layout. Each pod is preloaded and can be swapped in the field using its hydraulic crane, allowing rapid rearmament. The system can deliver diverse firepower—from high-volume 122 mm salvos to long-range precision strikes with 262 mm rockets, including guided versions. With capacity for 48 rockets in the 122 mm loadout or 12 rockets in the 262 mm setup, Tamnava offers tactical flexibility while reducing logistical complexity, making it one of the most adaptable non-NATO MLRS systems currently in service.
