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Hungary Strengthens Air Defense Near Ukrainian Border Amid Escalating Tensions.
Hungary has announced the deployment of air defense systems in its northeastern regions, close to the border with Ukraine, citing concerns over escalating tensions in the Russo-Ukrainian conflict. This decision follows the authorization granted to Ukraine to use Western-supplied weapons to target locations deep within Russian territory.
While specific details about the deployed systems have not been officially disclosed, recent acquisitions suggest the potential equipment involved. (Picture source: Army Recognition)
Hungarian Defence Minister Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky stated that the deployment aims to protect Hungarian airspace as the war has reached what he described as its "most dangerous phase." He emphasized the unprecedented scale of the conflict and its potential implications for regional security. The minister also referred to Russia’s new nuclear doctrine, announced in September by President Vladimir Putin, which expands the conditions for the potential use of nuclear weapons. These developments, combined with Ukraine’s enhanced long-range strike capabilities, have heightened security concerns in Hungary.
This decision comes after several incidents near Hungary’s border, including the interception of Russian missiles over the Carpathian Mountains last weekend. Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó has called for renewed international efforts to end the conflict. Following reports of Ukrainian strikes on targets deep within Russian territory using Western-supplied missiles, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán convened a Defence Council meeting to address the increased risks of the conflict spilling over into neighboring countries.
While specific details about the deployed systems have not been officially disclosed, recent acquisitions suggest the potential equipment involved. In 2020, Hungary signed a contract for the acquisition of NASAMS air defense systems, jointly developed by Kongsberg (Norway) and Raytheon Technologies (USA). These systems are designed to intercept medium-range aerial threats such as aircraft, helicopters, and cruise missiles.
Hungary has also procured Mistral systems, French-made short-range surface-to-air missiles. These systems are effective against low-altitude aerial targets and are used by several European countries.
In December 2023, Hungary signed a memorandum of understanding with Rheinmetall for the development of air defense vehicles based on the Lynx KF41 platform, equipped with Skyranger 30 turrets. These systems are designed to neutralize aerial threats, including drones. While operational deployment is expected in 2025 or 2026, they could play a key role in modernizing Hungary's air defense capabilities.
Additionally, Hungary has upgraded its aerial surveillance capabilities by acquiring 11 ELM-2084 radars, significantly enhancing the detection and tracking of aerial threats.
These initiatives are part of the "Zrínyi 2026" military modernization program, aimed at bolstering Hungary’s defense capabilities in the face of current security challenges.
The deployment of air defense systems highlights Hungary’s stance on the escalating conflict, underscoring its concerns about regional stability and potential spillover effects. This initiative also reflects broader apprehensions in Central Europe regarding the potential repercussions of the Russo-Ukrainian war on NATO's eastern flank.