The British forces are trialling new weapons and technology in Cyprus which include unmanned aerial systems, robotic platforms and communications equipment.

The 2nd Battalion, the Yorkshire regiment, described as the only enhanced light forces battalion in the British Army, has already received its first batch of the “cutting-edge kit”.

As reported in Soldier magazine, the official monthly publication of the British Army, the trials are set to last for 12-18 months.

“The plan forms part of a three-year Field Army programme that has the twin aim of generating the most capable and lethal light role unit,” according to the report.

Stationed in Episkopi, the soldiers are testing new equipment to assess their effectiveness and feasibility.

“Our job is to work out how all of this comes together to maximum effect and our feedback will determine how this equipment is developed and what eventually becomes standard issue,” Maj Colin Lunn was quoted as saying.