ISLAMABAD – May 5, 2025
Pakistan has successfully carried out a training launch of its surface-to-surface missile from the Fatah Series, with a range of 120 kilometers, the military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), announced on Monday. The test was conducted as part of ongoing military exercises codenamed “Ex Indus.”
The missile test comes during a period of increased tension between Pakistan and India, following the April 22 attack in Indian-administered Kashmir that left 26 people dead. While India has suggested cross-border involvement without presenting concrete evidence, Pakistan has firmly denied the allegations and demanded an independent investigation.
According to ISPR, the purpose of the launch was to assess the operational readiness of military personnel and validate technical capabilities, particularly the missile’s upgraded navigation and targeting systems.
The training launch was observed by senior military officers, scientists, and engineers from Pakistan’s strategic institutions. Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Sahir Shamshad Mirza and Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir congratulated the participating teams, expressing full confidence in the Pakistan Army’s technical and operational preparedness.
President Asif Ali Zardari also extended his congratulations to the engineers, scientists, and military personnel, reaffirming the nation’s resolve to safeguard its sovereignty and bolster national defense. In a message shared on X (formerly Twitter), he praised their efforts to strengthen Pakistan’s strategic capabilities.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif lauded the test as a reflection of Pakistan’s robust defense posture. In a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office, he commended the efforts of military and scientific teams, stating that the successful launch showcased the army’s professionalism and preparedness.
The Fatah Series launch follows Saturday’s test of the Abdali Weapon System, a surface-to-surface missile with a 450-kilometer range. In May 2024, the Pakistan Army had tested the Fatah-II system, which boasts a 400-kilometer range and advanced terminal guidance technology designed to overcome enemy missile defenses.
Meanwhile, tensions continue to escalate along the Line of Control (LoC), with Pakistan responding to repeated ceasefire violations from Indian forces since April 25. The Pakistan Army has remained on high alert, responding to unprovoked shelling across multiple sectors in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
Amid the ongoing security concerns, ISPR Director General Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry and Information Minister Attaullah Tarar briefed lawmakers from various political parties in an in-camera session in Islamabad on Sunday. During the session, Gen Chaudhry asserted that the armed forces are fully prepared to defend the nation against any aggression.
Information Minister Tarar also briefed the political leadership on Pakistan’s diplomatic initiatives and reiterated the government’s commitment to peace while preparing for all possible scenarios.
