Page 103 - Australian Defence Magazine Feb-Mar 2023

Best Performance with Great Economic Values
As the Russian invasion of Ukraine and its previous intervention in Syria have shown, and the Chinese threat to east Asia and the Pacific Ocean grows, it has been clear that the aerial threat
is not limited to cross-border strikes. Attacks can be launched from great distances from submarines and surface ships, long-range bombers, ballistic missiles, drones, and cruise missiles, traveling hundreds and thousands
of miles to their targets. Defending against such threats requires a comprehensive system of systems employing the most advanced sensors and multi-layered interceptors capable of defeating the threats at a reasonable cost. Australia plans to address these threats with an Integrated Air and Missile Defence system comprising the Joint Air Battle Management System (JABMS) at the center.
The Integrated Air and Missile Defence system developed by Australia aims to address the growing threat. It will consist of a multi-layered network of interceptors, including
the existing Land 19 and the new Medium Range Ground Based Air Defence (MRGBAD), also known as Project AIR6502 Phase 1, which will
be deployed in the coming years. The top tier of the system, known as Air 6503, is designed to counter ballistic and future advanced threats and will be deployed toward the end of the decade. For MRGBAD to best fulfill its mission,
it should be capable of intercepting targets at a long range and be operated autonomously or in a distributed (networked) manner.
To secure the availability of critical elements, such as sensors, battle management and consumables, like interceptors and spare parts, extensive Australian Industrial Participation (AIP) is a prerequisite.
IAI’s BARAK-MX air defence system is considered a potential candidate for the Australian middle-layer area air defence capability. The BARAK-MX system was developed to meet Israel’s rigorous requirements and integrates
in the country’s land based and naval air defence system. As a modern, combat-proven system already used by numerous services providing National
Credit: IAI
Ground Based Air Defence (GBAD), Naval Air Defence, and Wide Area Defence missions. For its open-system flexibility and ability to integrate with various sensors, communications, and data links, BARAK-MX has the potential to accelerate operability by interfacing with Australian-made radars, BMS,
and Coalition Tactical Data Links as well as offer Initial operational capability in a short time. Its modular design allows for operational flexibility as user needs evolve and new threats emerge. The system can match interceptors from different fire units with incoming threats in real-time by implementing ‘loosly coupled’ system technology
that allows for agile response and maintains an optimal battle economy. This capability also enables the rapid fielding of forward-deployed air defence components. Using smart launchers and networked command and control coupled with deployed sensors, users can quickly establish an initial advanced air defence capability and gradually enhance performance by adding sensors and interceptors with different coverage over land and sea. Based
on these integration capabilities, such deployed forces can also interface with coalition forces.
The Australian government plans a significant investment in the development of the MRGBAD system,
with an estimated cost of up to A$7.3 billion. To maximize the involvement of the Australian industry, the government is considering partnering with companies with the technology and expertise to transfer that knowledge to Australian partners. IAI offers Transfer of Technology (ToT) in some strategic markets, such as in India, allowing
local partners to absorb advanced technologies, manufacture subsystems, software, and hardware, and provide logistics, training, and maintenance for the systems. As the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), IAI can offer comprehensive ToT as it controls the system's design completely.
The BARAK-MX air defence system, developed by IAI, is considered a potential component of the MRGBAD system for Australia. Its superior capabilities, flexible integration
and deployment, and potential for technology transfer make it an attractive option for the Australian government. The BARAK-MX system has already proven its effectiveness with numerous services. It can provide Australia with
an accelerated operational capability to meet emerging threats while supporting the local economy by incorporating locally produced components
and subsystems.
For further information, please contact IAI Australia
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