Israel and Slovakia sign EUR 560 million deal for Barak MX air defence system

The Barak MX system, a state-of-the-art air defence solution, is designed to counter a range of aerial and ballistic threats, including fighter jets, UAVs, cruise missiles, and tactical ballistic missiles. It features three interceptors with ranges of 35 km, 70 km, and 150 km, advanced radar seekers, dual-pulse engines, and powerful warheads for exceptional interception performance.

The Barak MX system is a key component of Israel’s defence capabilities, and this agreement reflects the strong partnership between Israel and Slovakia. The system boasts a modular, network-centric design that allows seamless integration of various sensors, battle management systems, and interceptors into a unified defence solution.

One of the standout features of the Barak MX is its ability to interconnect multiple units, expanding defended areas by enabling fire units to share assets and engage targets beyond individual reach. It also supports integration of Ground-Based Air Defences (GBAD) and Naval Air Defences, creating a comprehensive multi-layered network to deny enemy access and missile attacks.

Unlike converted air-to-air missiles, the Barak MX interceptors were specifically designed for surface-to-air operations, giving them an optimal size and performance advantage. The system includes the Barak ER with a 150 km range, Barak LR with a 70 km range, and Barak MR with a 35 km range. All interceptors share common components and can address threats from as close as 2 km to as far as 150 km.

IAI, recognised as a global leader in air defence systems, brings decades of experience in missile defence, including the development of Israel’s Arrow Anti-Ballistic Missile Defence System. The Barak MX is operational across four continents and was recently chosen by Germany as part of the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI).

This deal underscores the growing international recognition of IAI’s expertise in air defence and offensive systems. The Barak MX, developed with input from IAI’s strike systems and loitering munitions teams, reflects the company’s commitment to delivering advanced solutions for countering modern threats.