New Delhi:
Pakistan has claimed to have successfully tested a surface-to-surface ballistic missile with a 450-km range on Saturday. The missile, known as the Abdali Weapon System, was launched as part of Exercise INDUS, Islamabad claimed.
The missile test by Pakistan comes amid rising tensions with India in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack. India views any missile test by the neighbouring country as a grave provocation, said sources.
“The launch was aimed at ensuring the operational readiness of troops and validating key technical parameters, including the missile’s advanced navigation system and enhanced manoeuvrability features,” the Pakistani government said.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and other military chiefs have expressed “complete confidence” in the operational readiness and technical proficiency of the forces to safeguard the country’s national security, it added.
The missile test serves as the latest provocation from Pakistan alongside regular ceasefire violations along the Line of Control, which separates the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, and the International Border between the two countries.
Besides, provocative statements and warmongering by Pakistani leaders have remained constant since the April 22 Pahalgam attacks.
