Defence minister skirts question about hypersonic missile test in Balochistan

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif avoided confirming or denying reports about a possible hypersonic ballistic missile test in Balochistan, saying such questions should not be discussed publicly.

Speaking during a TV talk show, Asif was asked whether Pakistan had recently carried out a missile test. “Do not ask all these questions now. Ask such things in private,” he replied.

The question came days after widespread speculation triggered by an unusual cloud formation seen over Quetta in the early hours of Tuesday.

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The rare “lenticular cloud” left many residents puzzled, prompting online debate about its cause. Some social media users suggested it might have been linked to a secret missile test or a new military technology trial.

Earlier this week, the defence minister had dismissed such speculation, calling it unfounded.

Later, the Pakistan Meteorological Department issued a statement explaining that the phenomenon was a lenticular cloud formation observed over the Koh-i-Murdar region before sunrise. The cloud remained visible for about 20 minutes before fading away.