Pakistan successfully carried out a training launch of the Abdali tactical ballistic missile on Saturday as part of Exercise INDUS. The missile, a surface-to-surface system with a range of 450 kilometers, is designed to enhance operational readiness and validate technical features such as an advanced navigation system and improved manoeuvrability, according to the military’s media wing.
The launch was observed by top military leadership, including the Commander of the Army Strategic Forces Command, senior officials from the Strategic Plans Division and Army Strategic Forces Command, as well as scientists and engineers from Pakistan’s strategic institutions.
President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, and the heads of the armed forces congratulated the personnel involved. They expressed full confidence in the operational capabilities and technical expertise of Pakistan’s Strategic Forces, reaffirming the country’s commitment to credible minimum deterrence and the protection of national security.
This missile launch comes amid escalating tensions between Pakistan and India, following a deadly attack in the Pahalgam region of Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. India has accused Pakistan of involvement without presenting evidence—a claim Pakistan has firmly denied.
In response, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi granted his military unrestricted authority to retaliate, while Pakistan has issued warnings about a possible imminent strike from its eastern neighbor.
