With the Barak MX fully operational, Cyprus enhances its ability to counter a wide range of aerial threats and secure its skies
Cyprus' long-awaited "Iron Dome," the Barak MX anti-aircraft defense system, is now fully operational, significantly bolstering the island’s air defense capabilities. Despite earlier reports suggesting delays, 24News has confirmed that the system is functioning smoothly, with technical setbacks and global conflicts playing a role in the installation’s initial delay.
The Barak MX system, developed by Israeli Aerospace Industries (IAI), is a major upgrade over the popular "Iron Dome" defense system, which has gained notoriety for its role in countering Hamas rocket attacks. Unlike the Iron Dome, which uses short-range Tamir missiles, the Barak MX is a highly sophisticated, multi-layered defense system capable of intercepting a wide range of airborne threats, from drones to ballistic missiles.
One of the standout features of the Barak MX is its ability to launch and track multiple guided missiles simultaneously, including the Barak MR, which has a range of up to 35 kilometers, the Barak LR with a 70 km reach, and the long-range Barak ER, which can engage targets at distances of up to 150 kilometers. With these capabilities, the Barak system can effectively create a No Fly Zone over Cyprus, "locking" the Nicosia FIR (Flight Information Region), ensuring that any air threats are quickly neutralized.
This advanced system is also highly versatile, able to defend against various aerial threats, including helicopters, drones, cruise missiles, airplanes, and even ballistic missiles. The Barak MX’s precision tracking system enhances its ability to detect and engage multiple targets at once, making it a significant leap forward in Cyprus' defense strategy. In comparison, Cyprus’ previous Russian S-300 system, purchased in 1997, had similar range capabilities but lacked the same level of versatility and advanced tracking features. The S-300 system was eventually relocated to Crete, while the Barak MX remains a key asset for Cyprus’ national security.
While the installation process faced delays due to technical issues and disruptions caused by the ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon—during which the Israeli defense industry prioritized other matters—the system is now fully operational and provides Cyprus with a robust defense against evolving aerial threats. This marks a significant milestone for the National Guard, as the Barak MX strengthens the island’s ability to defend its airspace, ensuring greater security and deterrence in a region marked by instability.
The full deployment of the Barak MX system represents a critical upgrade to Cyprus' defense infrastructure and signals a renewed commitment to enhancing its military capabilities. As regional tensions continue, the Barak MX stands as a powerful symbol of Cyprus’ growing air defense prowess.
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