Pak test-fires nuclear capable ballistic missile

Pakistan today successfully test launched a surface-to-surface ballistic missile capable of carrying nuclear and conventional warheads to a distance of 2,750 kilometres, bringing most Indian cities under its range.

Shaheen-III's test launch was aimed at validating various design and technical parameters of the weapon system at maximum range, Pakistan Army said.

"The successful launch, with its impact point in the Arabian Sea, was witnessed by senior officers from Strategic Plans Division, strategic forces, scientists and engineers of strategic organisations," it said.

Director General Strategic Plans Division Lieutenant General Zubair Mahmood Hayat termed the test a major step towards strengthening Pakistan's deterrence capability.

Congratulating the team behind the test launch on achieving another milestone of historic significance, Hayat appreciated the technical prowess, dedication and commitment of scientists who contributed to make this launch a success.

He showed his full confidence over the Strategic Command and Control System and the Strategic Forces' capability to safeguard Pakistan's security against any aggression.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and President Mamnoon Hussain also appreciated the successful test launch and congratulated the team on their outstanding achievement.

Last month Pakistan had conducted another missile test with the launch of a low-flying cruise missile capable of carrying a nuclear warhead up to 350 kilometres.

The Ra'ad missile enables Pakistan to achieve "strategic standoff capability" on land and at sea, as it uses extremely complex "Cruise Technology" that has been developed by only a few countries in the world, the army had said.