Cyprus acquires Israeli Barak MX, bolstering Air Defense

The Israeli-made Barak MX is regarded as one of the most capable anti-aircraft systems currently in operation.
Photo: Israel Aerospace Industries

Cyprus has taken a major step toward creating a modern air defense shield, with the recent procurement of the Israeli-made Barak MX system. The Republic of Cyprus now possesses advanced anti-aircraft capabilities for the first time, allowing it to retire its older Russian BUK-M1 systems, ‘Greek Reporter’ informs.

The second shipment of the Barak MX, manufactured by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), recently arrived in Cyprus, sparking a strong reaction from Ankara. This acquisition is also under consideration by Greece for its own “Achilles Shield” program to replace its outdated HAWK and S-300 anti-aircraft systems.

However, ongoing unrest in the Middle East has reportedly slowed negotiations between Athens and Jerusalem for various military equipment, including air defense platforms, Kathimerini reports.

Cyprus, moving more quickly than Greece, placed its order for the Barak MX in 2021. The first shipment arrived in December 2024, with the final components following nine months later.

Turkish reactions to Cyprus’ aid defense

As anticipated, the delivery of the Israeli system provoked a strong response from Turkey. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan issued a warning that Turkey “will not allow anyone to cause new suffering to the Turkish Cypriots.” Additionally, Yanki Bağcıoğlu, a deputy chairman of the Republican People’s Party, called the move a “clear violation of International Law.”

In response to Turkey’s criticism, Cypriot Minister of Defense Vasilis Palmas stated, “The Republic of Cyprus will strengthen its defense armor in order to be able to preserve its sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

Capabilities of the Barak MX

The Israeli-made Barak MX is regarded as one of the most capable anti-aircraft systems currently in operation. Its modular design offers significant flexibility, and its range extends to the Turkish coast.

The system consists of an Elta multi-mission radar, a fire control center, and launchers, all mounted on Tatra vehicles for the National Guard. The AESA technology radar can detect threats at distances of over 450 kilometers. In addition to its anti-aircraft capabilities, the Barak MX can also counter ballistic missiles and detect ground-based fire launch sites.

The National Guard reportedly acquired the MR and LR versions of the system, with ranges of 35 and 70 kilometers, respectively. There is also an ER (extended range) version available with a 150-kilometer radius, which could effectively impose a no-fly zone across the entire Nicosia FIR.

…This is very important information.

Israel is effectively dragging the Republic of Cyprus into its standoff with Turkey. This standoff threatens war in the region.

It means that peaceful life in tourist-friendly Cyprus could end tragically.

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