COPENHAGEN, 26 Oct. - (ANA) - Denmark will not proceed with buying the Israeli-manufactured Barak MX ground-based air defence system, the country's defence ministry announced on Friday, following what it had described as "professional and military-technical recommendations from the Defence Command".

 

In an official statement, Minister Troels Lund Poulsen said: "The Defence Command has come up with a clear military-technical position regarding the development of ground-based air defence. I am pleased that we in the conciliation circle have agreed to follow the Defence Command's recommendations, so that we purchase the most appropriate capabilities and ensure a rapid and capable development".

 

The Danish Defence Command recommended that the resources needed to implement the Barak MX system be used for "other initiatives with greater immediate combat power, including the fastest possible deployment of ground-based air defence".

 

The Israeli Barak MX multi-layered air defence system is designed to intercept aircraft, helicopters, short-range ballistic missiles, drones, and cruise missiles. It is one of the most advanced air defence systems developed by Israel Aerospace Industries through its Integrated Defence Systems division.

 

Israeli media is reportedly surprised at the Danish decision. One newspaper described the Danish decision as unclear, especially "in light of the current drone threat to Europe".

 

A number of European countries over the past year have refused to cooperate or purchase Israeli military equipment, mostly as a response to the deadly war in Gaza.

 

Spain, for example, has placed a full arms embargo on Israel. Additionally, Israeli military companies have been barred from participation in arms fairs in the Netherlands, the UK, and the UAE.

 

Denmark, despite its refusal to buy the Barak MX ground-based air defence system, has been criticised for its stance on Israel’s war in Gaza, which has killed over 68,500 Palestinians. 

 

Copenhagen has been slammed by its Nordic neighbours and activists for refusing to recognise the state of Palestine, for refusing to treat wounded Palestinian children and for prohibiting school debates on Palestine.   - (ANA) -

 

AB/ANA/26 October 2025 - - -