Israel sells air defense system to Slovakia for €560 million
The Israel Ministry of Defense (IMOD) announced on Monday that Slovakia has decided to purchase an Israeli air defense system for €560 million (approximately $588 million).
The system, known as the BARAK MX Integrated Air Defense System, was sold by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), a leading technology corporation owned by the State of Israel.
The press release issued by IMOD stated that the “system is known for its flexible capability to counter threats from various sources, including fighter jets, helicopters, UAVs, cruise missiles, surface-to-air missiles, and tactical ballistic missiles.”
The deal was facilitated by the International Defense Cooperation Directorate, part of Israel's Defense Ministry.
IMOD Dir.-Gen. Eyal Zamir said, “On behalf of the Defense Minister and defense establishment, I want to thank the Slovak Defense Ministry for choosing an Israeli air defense system and believe other NATO countries will follow their lead.”
He also said he believes that “the expansion of Israeli defense exports during the war is a direct result of Israeli technologies proving themselves on the battlefield.”
IAI CEO Boaz Levy also commented on the deal, emphasizing the importance of a strong partnership with Slovakia.
“We look forward to a strong and growing partnership with the Slovak government in the years ahead,” Levy said. “This collaboration marks a significant milestone in IAI’s relations with the Slovak government, and reflects the trust international partners place in IAI’s holistic defense solutions and cutting-edge technology.”
In 2021, Slovakia acquired defense technology from Israel when it purchased 17 MMR radar systems for approximately $182 million.
The All Israel News Staff is a team of journalists in Israel.