Navy successfully tests Barak missile

             The Navy tested the Barak missile defense system last week and successfully intercepted an incoming "enemy" missile that Navy sources said mimicked anti-ship missiles that could one day reach Iranian, Syrian and Hizbullah hands. The test took place in the Mediterranean Sea last week. The enemy missile was fired from one ship and intercepted by a Barak missile launched from another Sa'ar 5-class missile ship. The Barak intercepted and completely destroyed the incoming missile. The interceptor was an improved version of the Barak missile that will be installed on all Israeli missile ships. During the Second Lebanon War, a Hizbullah-fired C-802 missile struck the INS Hanit, killing four sailors. At the time, due to poor intelligence, the Barak system had been deactivated. Israel Aerospace Industries is currently in the final development stages of the Barak-8 missile which is scheduled to become operational next year. The new missile will reportedly feature a more advanced seeker and be capable of longer ranges, close to 80 kilometers. (22,10)