The Israeli newspaper Maariv refers today to the strengthening of the anti-aircraft defense of the Republic of Cyprus with another battery of the Israeli BARAK MX system, pointing out the strong reactions caused by the development in Turkey.
The article cites "Fileleftheros" and states that Nicosia is proceeding with the completion of the initial armament planning, with the aim of creating an integrated anti-aircraft shield that will cover the territory of the Republic of Cyprus.
The BARAK MX, which is manufactured by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), has already been included in the operational planning of the National Guard and was presented to the public for the first time during the military parade on October 1 in Nicosia.
This is a multi-layered air defense system, capable of countering drones, cruise missiles and tactical ballistic missiles, with interceptors with a range of up to 150 kilometers.
Maariv highlights the concern expressed in Ankara, noting that Turkish officials and political figures have called the Israeli system "more dangerous than the Russian S-300s" due to its operational capabilities and range.
At the same time, the Israeli publication refers to Nicosia's interest in additional Israeli defense systems, including the DRONE DOME anti-drone system, the LITE BEAM laser system and the "Iron Dome" anti-missile (IRON DOME).
It is clarified, however, that no final decisions have been made nor have official contacts been made with the manufacturing companies for their possible supply.
Finally, according to the report, the Russian-made TOR-M1 and BUK systems will remain, for the time being, in the arsenal of the National Guard, as the inclusion of the BARAK MX does not imply their immediate withdrawal.
