Pakistan has successfully carried out the test of its surface-to-surface missile, Ababeel, with a striking range of 450 kilometers, according to a statement released by the military’s media wing, ISPR.

The missile test was conducted during the Indus military exercises, aiming to evaluate the operational readiness of Pakistan’s strategic forces and validate the latest technological enhancements in missile navigation and mobility.

This successful test comes at a sensitive moment since the Pahalgam attack has caused sharp escalation of tensions between Pakistan and India. One could argue that the display of military capability clearly signals preparedness and deterrent.

The Ababeel missile, which boasts a sophisticated guidance system and enhanced maneuverability, was successfully tested under the observation of the Commander of the Army Strategic Forces Command, senior officials of the Strategic Plans Division, and Pakistan's top scientists and engineers from strategic organizations.

Pakistan's leaders, including the President, Prime Minister, and Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, hailed the army, scientists, and engineers participating in the project. They once again expressed their faith in the strategic prowess of Pakistan and asserted the country's determination to protect its sovereignty against any threat.