Slovakia is acquiring Israeli Barak MX surface-to-air missile systems, a decision that follows extensive negotiations. The total value of the contract has been officially announced to be around 560 million euros.
The official statement from the system's manufacturer, Israel Aerospace Industries, did not specify the number of systems or delivery timelines.
Meanwhile, back in May of this year, the Slovak government indicated that wanted to purchase six Barak MX. This same quantity was mentioned by the country's Minister of Defense, Robert Kalinak, a month ago during a government meeting, where he also noted that the delivery of the first elements of the missile system is expected to begin in late 2025, with the first system achieving operational readiness by early 2026.
However, previously the cost for six missile systems was reported to be around 800 million euros, while the final agreement was signed for 560 million euros. It remains unclear whether Slovakia received a significant discount, ordered fewer systems, opted for a different configuration, or reduced ammunition capacity.
It is worth noting that the Barak MX is a highly versatile missile system capable of utilizing three different missiles with ranges of 35, 70, and 150 km, designated as MR (Short-Medium Range), LR (Long Range), and ER (Extended Range). The latter is claimed to have capabilities against ballistic missiles.
Additionally, operators and firm customers of the Barak MX include: Azerbaijan, India, Morocco, Cyprus, and the Netherlands, which have chosen it to arm their multifunctional ships, where it will be part of a modular payload.