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Pakistan successfully tests launch of short-range Abdali ballistic missile
Pakistan has announced the successful test launch of the Abdali Weapon System, a short-range ballistic missile that can hit targets up to 450 kilometers away. The military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), shared the news on Saturday, saying that the test was conducted to check the readiness of Pakistan’s strategic forces and to confirm key technical improvements.
Purpose of the Missile Test
According to ISPR, the missile test was aimed at making sure that the troops operating the system are fully prepared for action. It also tested the missile’s advanced navigation system and enhanced maneuverability, which allow it to accurately reach its target and change direction if needed during its flight.
“The launch was aimed at ensuring the operational readiness of troops and validating key technical parameters,” said the ISPR statement.
Part of Military Exercise “Ex Indus”
The missile test was carried out as part of a military exercise called “Ex Indus.” This event was witnessed by several high-level officials, including the commander of the Army Strategic Forces Command (AFSC), senior officers from the Strategic Plans Division, and many scientists and engineers from Pakistan’s defense organizations.
Their presence highlighted the importance of the test, not just as a technical event, but as a symbol of Pakistan’s commitment to maintaining its defense capabilities.
Leaders Congratulate the Team
After the successful test, many of Pakistan’s top leaders expressed their appreciation and confidence in the teams involved. Among those who congratulated the scientists, engineers, and soldiers were:
President Asif Ali Zardari
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif
General Sahir Shamshad Mirza (Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee)
Chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force
In a statement, ISPR said these leaders expressed full confidence in the operational readiness of Pakistan’s Strategic Forces. They praised the technical skill and dedication of the teams responsible for maintaining the country’s credible minimum deterrence, a defense policy aimed at preventing aggression from others.
“They expressed complete confidence in the operational preparedness and technical proficiency of Pakistan’s Strategic Forces to ensure credible minimum deterrence and safeguard national security against any aggression,” the ISPR added.
Tensions Rise Between Pakistan and India
Violence in Kashmir Sparks Concerns
The missile test took place during a period of growing tensions between Pakistan and India, two countries that have fought several wars and both possess nuclear weapons.
The situation worsened after an attack on April 22 in Pahalgam, occupied Kashmir, where 26 people, including many tourists, were killed. This was one of the deadliest attacks in the area since the year 2000.
India blamed the attack on cross-border militants, hinting at Pakistan’s involvement without providing clear evidence. However, Pakistan strongly denied these accusations and called for an independent and neutral investigation into the incident.
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Military Clashes at the Border
Following the attack, tensions along the Line of Control (LoC) increased. Starting from April 25, Pakistan reported Indian shelling across the LoC in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). The Pakistan Army responded to what it called unprovoked firing by Indian forces.
Reports also suggest that Pakistan has strengthened its military presence near the border, preparing for any possible aggressive actions. Meanwhile, India’s Prime Minister has reportedly given his military “operational freedom” to respond as they see fit.
Missile Launch Sends a Clear Message
Analysts See It as a Warning
Many military analysts believe the timing of Pakistan’s missile test was deliberate. Speaking to AFP, military expert Hasan Askari Rizvi said the launch was intended as a message to both India and the international community.
“It clearly indicates that we have the resources to counter India,” Rizvi explained. “This is not just a message to India, but also to the rest of the world that we are well-prepared.”
Army Chief Issues Strong Warning
Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, General Asim Munir, also made strong statements about the country’s defense readiness. On Thursday, he warned that any “misadventure” by India would be met with a “swift, resolute and notch-up response.”
The next day, Pakistan’s senior military leadership also warned India of a “sure and decisive” response if India were to initiate war. These statements, combined with the missile test, show that Pakistan wants to send a clear warning while reinforcing its defensive stance.
Efforts to Reduce Tensions
International Community Steps In
As the situation grows more serious, international efforts are being made to prevent further conflict between the two neighbors. Diplomats from the United States and the European Union have reportedly contacted top leaders in both Pakistan and India, urging both sides to avoid escalation and keep communication channels open.
The role of international diplomacy is crucial in such situations, especially when both countries have nuclear weapons and a history of armed conflicts.
Not the First Missile Test This Year
It’s important to note that this isn’t the first missile test by Pakistan in recent months. In August 2024, Pakistan successfully carried out a test of the Shaheen-II surface-to-surface ballistic missile. This shows an ongoing effort to strengthen the country’s missile capabilities and ensure its forces stay up-to-date with modern technology.
A Message of Strength and Readiness
Pakistan’s successful test of the Abdali missile is being viewed as a signal of strength and readiness, especially at a time when relations with India are under strain. While the test may be routine from a military perspective, its timing and the statements made by top officials suggest it is meant to deter aggression and assure the nation’s security.
At the same time, diplomatic efforts are continuing to try to ease tensions and avoid a larger conflict. With both countries under pressure from international partners to act responsibly, it remains to be seen how the situation will develop in the coming weeks.
