randomradio
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I dont agree with S400 being the last system, as BARAK SAM is a clear example of how IN as chosen an IAI product over Ind. development. Lets also not discount the "efforts" of Military middlemen, who will ensure that ind. development fails.
Barak predates the S400. It was signed in 2005, while we are yet to sign a contract for S400.
We didn't have an equivalent program to Barak anyway. So there was no IAI vs DRDO here. Our SAM focus was at the low end (Astra based), mid end (Akash based) and very high end (BMD). The high end was always Barak. It's a joint venture. 70% of the missile is of Indian make.
When you have less money, you have to find the most cost effective solutions. While a huge chunk of funding and manpower was dropped into the BMD program, it was obvious that focusing on Barak was a better choice.
Obviously, due to the secrecy involved, nobody can say much about the project in open fora yet. IN, IAF and IA will be buying hundred+ systems of these SAMs. IA alone is interested in 5 regiments.
http://www.business-standard.com/ar...-first-tri-service-weapon-117092500988_1.html
http://indianexpress.com/article/in...njamin-netanyahu-mrsam-missiles-deal-4734693/
The technology is believed to have been jointly developed India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation in close collaboration with Rafael and IAI’s Elta division. Other Indian companies like Larsen & Toubro are also said to have participated in the project.
Anyway, most of our procurement focus has shifted from outright imports to either domestic projects or joint ventures. So S400 will be our last major SAM which is an outright purchase.