I think us common folk are unaware of the testing procedure in any military.
1. I honestly believe that the press releases about test being conducted successfully "with all parameters met"
are lies .. I have literally never heard of a press release going like .. "xyz" was found wanting in the test so not completely successful. (except that barrel bursting which was only revealed later)
2. These long drawn testing phase is normal in any military. The american M1299 howitzer is speaking right now .. but the americans don't expect service induction before 2024.
3. I think the mango people would be shocked by how long it takes for "testing" of a simple family car hatchback .
I do have a fair idea of the 'testing' process.
Army frames its GSQR with parameters that are practically unattainable. Why on earth should every arjun tank carry a mine plough, x other modifications and add another 10+ tons to its weight and then gripe about its weight?
A certain Indian truck model had to undergo a 7 year long trial and by the time it was ready for induction, the entire landscape had changed and the original manufacturer offered a better 'version' which went back for another round of testing. In the meantime, another Indian vendor managed to squeeze in despite being a poorer performer.
Had offered a dirt cheap solution to MoD-DRDO back in 2009-10 after the Mumbai carnage. After beating the competition hollow in terms of technology offering, pricing and support contract, we were edged out after the crooks revised that companies participating should have a turnover of XXX crores.
The folks at the top aren't deeply moved if jawan(s), low ranking officers(below brig/major general) are killed because of their gaffes or plain greed. Dhanda chalna chahiye.