Barak-8 in successful test

The Barak-8 air and missile defence system has successfully intercepted a target during testing onboard an Israel Navy corvette, Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) announced on 26 November.

The test scenario saw a target launched that was detected by the system’s ship-based radar. The weapon system calculated the optimal interception point and launched the Barak-8 missile into its operational trajectory, which then acquired and intercepted the target. According to IAI all weapon system’s components successfully met the goals of the test.  

The Barak-8 has been jointly developed by the Israel Ministry of Defense (IMOD) and the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) in India. The project is led by IAI as prime contractor, in collaboration with the IMOD’s Directorate of Defense Research and Development (DDR&D), ELTA Systems, and Rafael. 

The Barak-8 naval version is intended for use by the Israel and Indian defense forces to supply both point and area defense against a variety of airborne threats. The system includes a phased array digital radar, command and control, vertical launchers and missiles carrying an advanced seeker. 

The operational capabilities of the Barak-8 were proven in testing held in late 2014.

Joseph Weiss, president and CEO, IAI, said: ‘The successful test of the Barak-8 naval version reflects the system’s reliability and quality, together with its advanced technological capabilities. This unique project expresses the constructive cooperation between the Indian DRDO, the Israeli DDR&D and both countries’ defence forces. Barak-8 is one of IAI’s flagships and a major growth engine for the company.’