Pakistan successfully conducts training launch of Abdali short range missile

Pakistan has successfully conducted a training launch of the Abdali weapon system, a surface-to-surface missile with a range of 450 kilometres, capable of striking precise targets, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) announced on Saturday.

The Abdali missile, which has a range of 450 kilometers, was launched as part of Exercise INDUS.

According to the ISPR, the test aimed to validate the system’s operational preparedness and assess key technical features, including its advanced navigation capabilities.

The training launch was witnessed by the Commander of Army Strategic Forces Command, alongside senior officials from the Strategic Plans Division and Army Strategic Forces Command.

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Prominent scientists and engineers from Pakistan’s strategic organisations were also present at the launch event.

The ISPR said the successful test reflects the high level of technical excellence and operational readiness of Pakistan’s strategic forces.

President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, and the Services Chiefs congratulated the participating soldiers, engineers, and scientists on the successful launch.

"They expressed complete confidence in the operational preparedness and technical proficiency of Pakistan’s Strategic Forces to ensure credible minimum deterrence and safeguard national security against any aggression," according to the ISPR.

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The successful missile launch comes at a time when India is exhibiting a subdued yet hostile posture toward Pakistan, downgrading diplomatic ties and attempting to convince the international community of Pakistan's involvement in the Pahalgam attack in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

However, these efforts have proven futile due to New Delhi's failure to present any substantial evidence or achieve a breakthrough in the investigation of the attack. 

Pakistan's intelligence warned of possible Indian military action within 24–36 hours of the Pahalgam attack. Since then, the Pakistan Army has intercepted multiple threats, including the downing of two Indian quadcopters in Satwal and Bhimber. The Pakistan Air Force also forced Indian Rafale jets to retreat during a surveillance attempt.

Meanwhile, major regional powers, including, United States China, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia, have all called for de-escalation, with none endorsing India’s allegations against Pakistan or its possible use of force.

Notably, China has publicly declared its support for Pakistan in the wake of the rising tensions.