Slovakia has announced its intention to purchase six batteries of the Israeli Barak MX surface-to-air missile (SAM) system as part of an effort to modernise its air defence capabilities. 

This deal, valued at approximately €554 million, is expected to significantly enhance the country’s ability to defend its airspace against a range of threats. The intergovernmental agreement between Slovakia and Israel is expected to be signed by the end of October 2024, with deliveries of the Barak MX systems scheduled to begin by the end of 2025.

The BARAK MX system, developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), is an integrated air and missile defence system known for its flexibility and multi-layered capabilities. Designed to counter a wide range of aerial threats, from drones to tactical ballistic missiles, the BARAK MX offers a comprehensive solution capable of addressing multiple simultaneous threats from various sources and distances. 

With its modular and open architecture, it can integrate with various sensors and battle management systems, allowing for effective multi-layered air defence.

The BARAK MX system’s key components include three types of interceptors capable of covering aerial threats ranging from 2 to 150 km. The Barak ER (Extended Range) can engage targets at distances of up to 150 km, while the Barak LR (Long Range) and Barak MR (Medium Range) cover distances of 70 and 35 km, respectively. 

Slovak Defense Minister Robert Kaliňák emphasized the urgency of this acquisition, noting that Slovakia’s current air defence systems are outdated and nearing the end of their operational life. 

Specifically, the 2K12 KUB tracked medium-range (20 km) surface-to-air missile system (BUK’s ancestor), introduced between 1978 and 1983, no longer meets modern defence requirements.

Last, Slovakia also approved the purchase of more than 1,300 6×6 and 8×8 heavy truck vehicles in a joint acquisition with the Czech Republic, at an expected cost of €708.3 million, which will replace the Slovak army’s ageing trucks.

Also read: INTRACOM DEFENSE | Contract with IAI for the development of an advanced HECCS for the BARAK MX AMD platform