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Colombian defense officials consider the system’s introduction significant not only for its interception capabilities but also for the radar improvements included in the deal.
By Shula Rosen
Colombia has moved ahead with a major Israeli defense procurement despite President Gustavo Petro’s vocal hostility toward Israel during the war, as the country continues field integration of the Barak MX air-defense system purchased from Israel Aerospace Industries.
The ZM news site reported that the Colombian air force is installing the first battery, including command-and-control components and associated radars, as part of a multiyear rollout.
The $131.2 million contract, signed in 2022, calls for all batteries to be delivered by 2026 and for full operational deployment to be completed by 2032.
Colombian defense officials consider the system’s introduction significant not only for its interception capabilities but also for the radar improvements included in the deal.
According to ZM, the air force views the current integration phase as a central step in modernizing its air-defense network.
The Barak MX platform is designed to counter a wide set of threats, including fighter aircraft, helicopters, UAVs, cruise missiles, and both surface-to-air and surface-to-surface projectiles.
Its architecture supports multiple radars and a range of launchers, allowing users to tailor defenses according to operational demands.
The system is built around an advanced control center that enables operators to integrate several interceptor types.
Those interceptors include the Barak MRAD, a short-range, vertically launched missile equipped with a radar-guided seeker and a single-pulse engine designed for engagements up to 35 kilometers.
The Barak LRAD expands coverage to roughly 70 kilometers and uses a dual-pulse engine for extended reach. The Barak ER adds a booster stage and enhanced radar and communications capabilities, increasing the potential intercept envelope to about 150 kilometers.
Several countries—including Thailand, Azerbaijan, Slovenia, and Cyprus—have adopted the Barak MX, citing its multi-layered design and ability to operate across different mission profiles.
Israel Aerospace Industries says the system’s networked configuration allows forces to choose the most cost-effective and operationally efficient engagement method based on battlefield conditions.
Petro, who has sharply criticized Israel on political grounds, has not halted the defense project. The continuation of the program reflects Colombia’s longstanding interest in strengthening its air-defense capacity despite political tensions at the leadership level.
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