Barak MX Air Defense Systems Boost Cyprus Military Strength
**The Greek Cypriot Administration (GCA) has recently bolstered its military capabilities with the acquisition of a second batch of Barak MX air defense systems from Israel.** This delivery marks a significant step in enhancing the defense strategies employed by the Cyprus National Guard (GEEF), according to reports from ALPHA TV.
The Barak MX systems are poised to replace the older Russian-made Tor-M1 and BUK M1-2 systems currently in service. The initial delivery of these advanced systems took place last January, with the GCA aiming to modernize its air defense operations. Contrary to speculation that an Iron Dome system was also included in the delivery, officials in Cyprus have clarified that the received technology pertains exclusively to the Barak MX.
Reports indicate that the GCA has secured at least two Barak MX air defense batteries along with an undisclosed number of missiles from Israel, as reported by Forbes. This acquisition reflects a strategic investment in cutting-edge military technology designed to combat various aerial threats effectively.
Introduced in 2018 by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), the Barak MX system is part of a family renowned for its operational efficacy. It offers a sophisticated air and missile defense mechanism capable of addressing simultaneous threats from diverse sources, with both land and sea deployment options available.
The Barak MX system is equipped with advanced radars and versatile launchers, enabling it to target a wide range of aerial objects, including fighter jets, helicopters, and drones, as well as cruise missiles and ground-to-air threats. Furthermore, its operational control center is designed to integrate seamlessly with other interceptor systems for enhanced efficiency.
This modern air defense system employs three distinct types of missiles, each with varying ranges and altitudes. The specifications are as follows: the Barak MR with a range of 35 km and altitude of 20 km, the Barak LR reaching 70 km at an altitude of 20 km, and the Barak ER extending up to 150 km with an altitude capability of 30-35 km.
Depending on operational requirements, either the ELM-2138 MMR or ELM-2084 MMR radar systems can be deployed. The Barak MX’s flexibility allows for the integration of multiple missile types tailored to meet specific defense needs.
Additionally, the Barak missiles can navigate with remarkable agility, maneuvering up to 50 g. Their container-type transport capability enables discreet movement to strategic locations, further enhancing operational readiness. Notably, each launcher in the Barak MX system can fire up to eight missiles, significantly ramping up its defensive potential.
