Pakistan Successfully Tests Ababeel Ballistic Missile
Pakistan Conducts Test of Long-Range Ballistic Missile Ababeel
Pakistan recently conducted a test of its Ababeel long-range surface-to-surface ballistic missile, capable of carrying nuclear and conventional warheads up to a range of 2,750 kilometers. The test was overseen by Pakistan Chief of Army Staff General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, senior officers from the Strategic Plans Division and Strategic Forces Command, as well as scientists and engineers from strategic organizations.
However, it was reported that the test did not produce the desired result, as the missile crashed in the Baluchistan province. Despite this setback, General Mirza commended the technical expertise, dedication, and determination of all individuals involved in the test.
The Ababeel missile system stands out for its range of 2,750 kilometers and precise targeting capabilities. According to the media wing of the Pakistani army, the primary purpose of the missile system is to enhance deterrence capabilities and increase strategic stability in the region through the implementation of a full-spectrum deterrence strategy.
The Ababeel missile, also known as the Ababeel Weapon System, is a medium-range surface-to-surface ballistic missile with Multiple Independent Targetable Reentry Vehicle (MIRV) capabilities developed by Pakistan. Its main objective is to ensure the survivability of Pakistan’s ballistic missiles in response to the growing regional Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD), particularly India’s anti-ballistic missile systems.
Referred to as the “Ultimate Nuclear Missile” by The National Interest, the Ababeel missile system is designed to counter Indian Ballistic Missile Defense systems and potentially neutralize India’s nuclear arsenal. The missile is 21.5 meters long, 1.7 meters in diameter, and can carry both conventional and nuclear warheads. It is South Asia’s first MIRV-capable missile with a maximum range of 2,200 kilometers.
The Ababeel missile system was developed by Khan Research Laboratories (KRL). While it was initially believed to be a liquid-fueled missile, some sources suggest that it could be a modification of the Shaheen-III missile airframe, incorporating solid-fuel engines and an expanded payload capacity for MIRV warheads. This modification may have resulted in a decrease in range from 2,750 kilometers to 2,200 kilometers.
The first publicly announced test launch of the Ababeel missile system took place on January 24, 2017. Despite the recent test failure, Pakistan remains committed to advancing its missile capabilities to strengthen its deterrence capabilities and ensure strategic stability in the region.
