Pakistan has successfully conducted a training launch of the Abdali Weapon System, a surface-to-surface ballistic missile with a range of 450 kilometers, the military’s media affairs wing announced on Saturday.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the test was conducted to ensure the operational readiness of the troops and to validate the missile’s advanced navigation system and enhanced maneuverability features. The launch was part of the “Ex Indus” exercises.
The event was observed by senior officials, including the commander of the Army Strategic Forces Command (AFSC), officials from the Strategic Plans Division, as well as scientists and engineers from Pakistan’s strategic organizations. A video of the successful launch was also released by the ISPR.
Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, and the services chiefs congratulated the troops, scientists, and engineers involved in the successful test. The statement added that they expressed full confidence in Pakistan’s Strategic Forces, acknowledging their operational preparedness and technical proficiency to ensure a credible minimum deterrence and protect national security from any aggression.
This missile test comes amid rising tensions between nuclear-armed neighbors Pakistan and India following India’s aggressive response to a deadly attack in occupied Kashmir.
The April 22 attack in Pahalgam, which claimed the lives of 26 people, mostly tourists, has further strained relations. While India has suggested cross-border links without providing evidence, Pakistan has rejected these claims and called for an impartial investigation.
Tensions have escalated with Pakistan reinforcing its military presence in anticipation of an Indian incursion, and India’s leadership granting “operational freedom” to its forces. Since April 25, there has been ongoing shelling across the Line of Control (LoC) in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), with Pakistan responding to unprovoked Indian fire.
Military analysts in Pakistan have suggested that the missile launch serves as a warning shot. “It clearly shows that we have the capability to counter India. This message is not just for India but for the rest of the world, indicating that we are well-prepared,” said Hasan Askari Rizvi, a military analyst.
Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir warned on Thursday that any “misadventure” by India would be met with a “swift, resolute, and proportional response.” The following day, top military officials also cautioned India of a “sure and decisive” response if it sought to escalate the conflict.
Amid these heightened tensions, diplomatic efforts have been underway to prevent further conflict, with the United States and the European Union reaching out to senior leaders in both Pakistan and India.
In August 2024, Pakistan had also successfully conducted a training launch of the Shaheen-II surface-to-surface ballistic missile.
