Nuclear-capable: Pakistan test-launches ballistic missile

The Ghauri missile can carry both conventional and nuclear warheads up to a distance of 1300 kms, says ISPR

ISLAMABAD:

Pakistan on Wednesday “successfully” conducted a training launch of the Ghauri missile system as part of a series of tests being carried out over the past few months to validate the “operational preparedness and tactical readiness” of the Armed Strategic Force Command.

The launch was conducted by a Strategic Missile Group of the Army Strategic Command at an undisclosed location.

“The Ghauri Ballistic Missile can carry both conventional and nuclear warheads up to a distance of 1300 kms,” said a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

The launch was witnessed by senior officers from Strategic Plans Division, strategic forces, scientists and engineers of strategic organisations.

While congratulating the scientists, engineers and all ranks of Strategic forces, Director General Strategic Plans Division, Lieutenant General Zubair Mahmood Hayat, expressed full satisfaction over the excellent standard achieved by Strategic Forces during their training which was duly reflected by the proficient handling of the weapon system in the field and fulfillment of operational and technical objectives.

He also emphasized that Pakistan can be justifiably proud of its defence capabilities and the capability of its nuclear deterrence.

The successful training launch was also warmly lauded by the President and Prime minister of Pakistan who congratulated the strategic forces, scientists and engineers on their outstanding achievement, the statement said. Previously, on March 9, Pakistan had conducted a successful test launch of the Shaheen-III surface to surface ballistic missile, capable of carrying nuclear and conventional warheads to a range of 2750 Kms.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 16^th, 2015.