Advanced Missile with Precision Capabilities
The Pakistan Army on Tuesday successfully conducted a training launch of its newly inducted Fatah-4 ground-launched cruise missile, capable of striking targets up to 750 kilometres away. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the indigenously developed system is fitted with advanced avionics and state-of-the-art navigational technology, enabling it to evade enemy defences through terrain-hugging flight and deliver high-precision strikes.
The ISPR added that as part of the newly formed Army Rocket Force Command, the Fatah-4 significantly enhances the range, lethality, and survivability of Pakistan’s conventional missile arsenal.
Leadership Praises Indigenous Achievement
The launch was observed by the Chief of General Staff, senior military leaders, as well as scientists and engineers who played a pivotal role in the missile’s development. President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, and the Services Chiefs congratulated the troops and technical teams.
In his message, President Zardari hailed the test as “a milestone in Pakistan’s defence system,” emphasising that the missile proves the nation’s scientific self-reliance. He praised the dedication of scientists and engineers, declaring Pakistan’s defence “impregnable.”
Recent Escalations with India
The successful test comes in the backdrop of heightened regional tensions. In recent months, Pakistan and India were locked in a deadly confrontation following the April 22 Pahalgam attack that killed 26 people, which New Delhi blamed on Islamabad, a charge Pakistan rejected.
The crisis escalated with cross-border missile strikes and retaliatory operations, including Pakistan’s “Operation Bunyanum Marsoos,” which targeted Indian military installations after Indian missile attacks on Pakistani cities and airbases. Both nations suffered heavy losses, including civilian casualties, before a ceasefire was announced on May 10 following intervention by US President Donald Trump.
The addition of Fatah-4 to Pakistan’s arsenal underlines its strategy of maintaining credible deterrence amid ongoing hostilities.
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