Thailand has awarded a 3.44-billion-baht ($107-million) contract to Israel Aerospace Industries for the Barak MX air defense system to support its Integrated Air Defense System modernization program. The selection aims to address emerging threats, especially drones and long-range missiles. Barak MX interceptors offer ranges of 35, 70, and 150 kilometers. Once fielded, the system will add a medium-to-high-tier defensive layer, easing pressure on short-range systems and improving protection of critical bases. The system proved its combat effectiveness during Israel’s “Rising Lion” operation, intercepting Iranian missiles. The acquisition is strategically important, given that neighboring Cambodia and Myanmar have acquired long-range strike assets including China’s PHL-03 multiple-launch rocket system and North Korea’s Hwasong ballistic missiles.
