How Israel's Sea Shield ‘Barak-Magan' With 360° Radar Is Taking Down Iranian Drones
Military analysts say Barak-Magan may become key to Israel's naval defence as cheap but deadly drone threats continue to grow across the region
In a significant defensive manoeuvre, Israel has demonstrated its advanced naval capabilities by intercepting and destroying eight drones launched from Iran. The drones were brought down using Israel's cutting-edge naval defence system, 'Barak Magan' or 'Electric Shield', from the Sa'ar 6 class corvette on the night of June 15. This marked the system's inaugural use in combat.
What Is Black Magan?
Barak Magan, developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) based on Barak MX technology, is an advanced air defence system designed for maritime deployment. Here are some of it's key features:
It offers 360-degree radar coverage
It can intercept drones, cruise missiles, shore-to-sea rockets, and certain ballistic weapons.
The system features three types of interceptors: MRAD for up to 35 km, LRAD for up to 70 km, and ER for engaging threats up to 150 km away.
How Does It Work?
The system operates using the EL/M-2248 MF-STAR radar and electro-optical sensors installed on the Sa'ar 6 warship. Within seconds, it can identify enemy drones or missiles and launch a vertical missile from a smart launch module to neutralise the threat from any direction.
Israel has deployed the system to safeguard its Navy's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), which includes critical gas platforms and maritime routes—highlighting its reliability and combat readiness.
Why This System Matters To India
The Barak Magan technology holds significance for India as well, with its land and sea-based variant Barak-8 co-developed by India's DRDO and IAI. The Barak-8, boasting a range of up to 100 km, is already in use by the Indian Navy and Air Force.
Why It's A Strategic Breakthrough
The introduction of Barak Magan is considered a game-changer in maritime defence, particularly against the rising threat of drones and low-altitude weapons. Ground-based systems like Iron Dome or David's Sling may not always suffice against such threats, making flexible and high-range systems like Barak Magan crucial for pre-emptive defence.
Success Rate Till Now
The Israeli Navy claims that Barak Magan has successfully intercepted approximately 25 drones or aerial threats during the ongoing conflict. Eight drones were recently intercepted in a single night by the Sa'ar 6 corvette, marking a significant milestone for the new defence system.
Military analysts say the system's rapid and precise activation demonstrates its reliability and combat effectiveness. According to them, it is likely to become central to Israel's sea-based security strategy, particularly as threats from inexpensive yet lethal technologies like drones continue to rise.
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The Hindu
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