Denmark Reconsiders Israeli Barak MX Air Defense System Amid Growing Drone Threats

A month after announcing a $9.1 billion deal to acquire air defense systems from European suppliers instead of the U.S.-made Patriot, Denmark is again considering an Israeli alternative — the Barak MX system developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI).

The Barak MX is designed to intercept a wide range of aerial threats, including drones, cruise missiles, ballistic missiles, aircraft, and helicopters. While Denmark had previously evaluated the Israeli system, political sensitivities and a broader anti-Israel sentiment in parts of Europe led Copenhagen to favor a mix of systems from Germany, France, and Sweden.

 series of mysterious drone incursions

In recent weeks, however, Denmark — like several other European nations — has faced a series of mysterious drone incursions, with Russia suspected of being behind the operations. These drone flights have targeted security facilities and airports, forcing closures, canceling flights, and costing millions of dollars. The growing threat has renewed doubts about Europe’s air defense readiness and prompted renewed interest in faster deployment options.

According to a report by Denmark’s public broadcaster DR, the Danish military remains interested in the Barak MX, citing its proven record in combat. The system has shown effectiveness in Israel’s defense against attacks from Iran and the Houthis, and the Barak-8 variant was successfully used by India earlier this year to intercept Pakistani missiles during cross-border clashes.

Already purchased by Slovakia and Cyprus, the Barak MX integrates smoothly with NATO air defense systems. It is also less costly than European alternatives, both in acquisition and interceptor expenses.

What makes the Israeli system especially appealing now is delivery time. IAI has offered to deliver the first batteries as early as 2026, while the European systems are not expected to arrive until 2028–2032, leaving Denmark with a potential gap in its aerial defense capabilities.

According to DR, IAI’s proposal includes advanced electronic warfare and jamming options that can disable or divert drones before resorting to physical interception — a cost-effective approach that appeals to Danish defense planners.

In a statement to DR, the Danish Ministry of Defense confirmed it is “examining several systems and their integration options”, without specifying which systems are under review.