The Barak-8 missile was jointly developed with Israel and was originally planned to be fired for two consecutive days on Wednesday. The surface-to-air missile was to be launched from the eastern Indian defense base of Chandipur to check the missile’s Integrated Test Range (ITR). Officials have refused to divulge the exact reason for delaying the test but the bad weather is thought to be the cause.
Defense authorities had earlier cleared residents located in the 2.5km radius today, as a precautionary measure for the launch. The evacuees were relocated to makeshift arrangements in the nearby areas. The villagers have even been provided with cash compensation and other aid for the inconvenience caused. It will still be launched on Thursday, June 30 if weather conditions are suitable. The cattle and livestock were also moved from the towns.
Experts say the sophisticated missile is capable destroying targets both in water, air, and ground as well. Besides the target-hitting capacities of the missile, the system also includes a multi-functional surveillance and threat alert radar system (MF-STAR).
