Hatf VII: Pakistan conducts fifth missile test

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Tuesday tested a fifth nuclear-capable missile since India launched a new long-range weapon capable of hitting China just over six weeks ago. The Hatf VII cruise missile has a range of 700 kilometres, can carry conventional warheads and has stealth capabilities, the military said. It described the “low flying, terrain hugging missile with high maneuverability” as having ‘pinpoint accuracy’ and ‘radar avoidance features’. Tuesday’s test was Pakistan’s fifth of a nuclear-capable missile since April 25. On April 20, India successfully test fired the Agni V capable of delivering a one-ton nuclear warhead anywhere in rival China, marking a major advance in its military capabilities. Defence analysts say India’s strategic priorities are focusing more on China, while Pakistan is still concerned about its eastern neighbour.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 6^th, 2012.