Israel has finalized its largest defense export deal with Slovakia, selling Israel Aerospace Industries’ Barak MX aerial defense system for $550 million.

Israel and Slovakia have finalized the largest defense export deal between the two countries, selling Israel Aerospace Industries’ Barak MX aerial defense system for approximately $550 million. The advanced system is designed to combat current and future aerial threats, including UAVs and ballistic missiles.

Slovakia plans on integrating it into their current air defense systems, which have been undergoing significant upgrades in response to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. This expansion of defense capabilities is part of a broader trend in Europe, where 18 EU member states have signed a letter of intent to strengthen European air and missile capabilities.

On Monday, Ministry of Defense Director General Major General (res.) Eyal Zamir signed the agreement at the Ministry’s headquarters in Tel Aviv. The deal was led by Director of SIBAT Brig. Gen. (Res.) Yair Kulas, CEO of IAI Boaz Levy, and Executive VP and General Manager of the Systems, Missiles & Space Group at IAI Brig. Gen. (res.) Guy Bar Lev.

“The expansion of Israeli defense exports during the war is a direct result of Israeli technologies proving themselves on the battlefield,” said Ministry of Defense Director General Major General (res.) Eyal Zamir.

The Barak MX system provides comprehensive coverage against a wide range of threats, including combat aircraft, helicopters, UAVs, and various missile types. Built around an advanced control center, the system integrates multiple interceptor missiles to counter airborne and ground-based threats. These include the short-range Barak MRAD, effective against targets within 35 kilometers, the medium-range Barak LRAD with a 70-kilometer range, and the long-range Barak ER, which can intercept threats up to 150 kilometers away. Each interceptor is equipped with specialized rocket motors and radar guidance to ensure precision targeting.

Having already seen operational success during Israel’s Swords of Iron War, the Barak MX has been adopted by other countries, including Azerbaijan, Morocco, and Cyprus. This latest deal with Slovakia, valued at $550 million, further solidifies the Barak MX as a key player in modern air defense.

As the defense sector continues to grow, this deal signifies not just the strengthening of Israel-Slovakia ties but also the increasing global reliance on Israeli defense technology to safeguard against a wide array of evolving threats.