But as soon as DRDO gets involved- like in WHAP or ATAGS - orders get stuck for long long time. These products simply don’t seem to meet the requirements. It seems DRDO intentionally makes products that fail the trials.
Dude..both WhaP and ATAGS have been acceptable by IA. A few tonnes don't matter when IA has critical need for these weapon platforms. Instead of having to use 1980s Bofors, ATAGS is 10X better and it's even better than ATHOS taking everything into account.
We have seen the requirements of IA on FRCV program. A 4 manned CV with 55tonne weight. Absolute bonkers. Then who remembers multi-calibre rifle? The list goes on.
It's not a DRDO problem. Which Indian private firm could develop Kanchan armour let alone make it lighter? If they can give the orders to them by all means.
Which Indian private company could develop Arjun tank even today. Not screwdriving but build from scratch. If they can, I would support them but they can't. You need to understand DRDO is carrying whole Indian defense industry now. If tomorrow, a private player emerges, I would support it too.
But Private R&D spending right now is zilch, nada, nil, shunya for all practical purposes. And I don't blame them if our armed forces give peanut orders. Drones and all are small systems, which is also used by state police, paramilitary forces, can have civilian versions, can be easily exported, etc.