Israel secures largest-ever deal for possible Barak air defense system sale.

On November 9, 2023, the Israeli Defense Ministry, in partnership with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), announced a significant $1.2 billion contract to provide advanced air defense systems to an unnamed country. This deal, revealed on Thursday, stands as one of the largest in IAI's history, highlighting Israel's expanding role in the international defense market.
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 The Barak air defense system comes in different variants (Picture source: Israel Aerospace Industries )

Despite inquiries from Defense News, both the Israeli Defense Ministry and IAI have maintained confidentiality regarding the specific type of air defense system and the identity of the purchasing nation. However, IAI has described the system as an "air defense system with advanced technological capabilities, which has been operationally proven," indicating its high efficacy and reliability in real-world scenarios.

Israeli media has speculated that the system in question could be the Barak air defense system. The Barak system comes in different variants, with the Barak MR (Medium Range) capable of reaching up to 35 kilometers (22 miles) and the Barak ER (Extended Range) covering distances up to 150 kilometers (93 miles). These missiles are adept at intercepting aircraft, medium-range ballistic missiles, and cruise missiles.

The Barak system is not new to the international market, having been previously acquired by countries such as Morocco, Colombia, and India, with India notably participating in the development phase of the Barak 8 variant.

IAI's portfolio also includes other prominent air and missile defense systems like Arrow 2, Arrow 3, Sky Capture, and Eagle Eye III VSHORAD, showcasing the company's diverse capabilities in this sector.

This deal is not only significant for IAI but also for the Israeli defense industry as a whole. It ranks as the third-largest for an Israeli air defense system, following the sale of the Arrow 3 system to Germany in August for $3.5 billion and the Barak 8 sale to India for $1.8 billion.