The National Guard of the Republic of Cyprus has received the first batch of the Israeli-made BARAK MX advanced air defense system, as stipulated in an agreement signed earlier this year.
Foreign Minister Vasilis Palmas commented on the delivery with restraint:
“We do not comment on such matters, but I can assure you that Cyprus today is safer than ever. We are doing everything necessary to strengthen our defense capabilities, working quietly but effectively.”
The President of the Republic added:
“We are strengthening Cyprus’ deterrent capabilities not only because our country is partially occupied, but also as an EU member state in a geostrategically important region.”
BARAK MX is a multi-layered and integrated air defense system designed to protect territories from airborne threats: aircraft, drones and missiles.
The system is equipped with an electronic scanning radar that can detect and track multiple targets simultaneously, and is also integrated with various control systems, which allows for the creation of a unified defense network.
Key advantages of the BARAK MX system:
Capable of intercepting targets at a distance of 2 to 150 km.
Use of advanced twin-pulse rockets.
Integration of ground and sea air defense into a single network.
Specifications:
BARAK ER: range 150 km. BARAK LR: range 70 km. BARAK MR: range 35 km.
All missiles in the system are equipped with larger warheads and improved RF seekers, ensuring high accuracy and efficiency.
As air defense expert Konstantinos Iatridis notes: “BARAK MX is not just an air defense system. This is a key element of defense, providing multi-layered defense and the ability to counter modern threats.”
This delivery strengthens the defense capabilities of Cyprus and contributes to security in the region, especially in the context of current geopolitical challenges.
Developed by Israel Aerospace Industries, the Barak MX is capable of countering a range of airborne threats, including drones, fighter jets, ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and helicopters. The system can use three missile variants: Barak MR with a range of 35 km, Barak LR - 70 km and Barak ER - 150 km.
The future fate of the S-300PMU1 raises questions. It is entirely possible that the S-300s will end up wherever Washington indicates, or that Cyprus will follow the example of Greece and transfer them to Armenia.
