Pakistan on Saturday successfully carried out a training launch of the Abdali Weapon System, a surface-to-surface ballistic missile with a range of 450 kilometers, local media reports quoting the country`s military media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
The launch aimed to assess the operational readiness of troops and validate key technical features, including an advanced navigation system and improved maneuverability, the ISPR said in a press release. The test was conducted as part of the ongoing “Ex Indus” exercise and was observed by senior officials from the Strategic Plans Division, the Army Strategic Forces Command (AFSC), as well as scientists and engineers from Pakistan’s strategic institutions.
President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, and the chiefs of the armed forces congratulated all personnel involved in the test. They expressed full confidence in the preparedness and technical capabilities of Pakistan’s Strategic Forces to maintain credible minimum deterrence and ensure national security.
The launch occurred amid rising tensions between Pakistan and India following a deadly attack on April 22 in Pahalgam, Indian-occupied Kashmir, which killed 26 people, mostly tourists. India has hinted at cross-border links, a claim Pakistan has firmly denied while calling for an impartial investigation.
In response to the escalating situation, Pakistan has reinforced its military presence, anticipating potential aggression. Since April 25, cross-border shelling across the Line of Control (LoC) in Azad Jammu and Kashmir has been reported, with Pakistan responding to unprovoked Indian firing.
Military analysts, including Hasan Askari Rizvi, noted that the missile launch was a strategic signal. “It shows Pakistan`s capability to counter any threat from India. It’s a message to both India and the global community that Pakistan is fully prepared,” Rizvi told AFP.
Army Chief General Asim Munir reiterated on Thursday that any Indian misadventure would be met with a “swift, resolute and upgraded” response. A day later, the military leadership warned of a “sure and decisive” reaction should India attempt to initiate conflict.
As diplomatic tensions mount, the United States and the European Union have reportedly reached out to leaders in both countries to prevent further escalation.
This marks another major test following Pakistan’s successful Shaheen-II missile launch in August 2024.
