Pakistan conducted a successful flight test of the Ababeel Weapon System on Wednesday, the military’s media wing said.
In a statement, the Inter-Service Public Relations (ISPR) said, “Pakistan today conducted a successful flight test of Ababeel Weapon System. The test flight was aimed at re-validating various design, technical parameters and performance evaluation of different sub-systems of the weapon system.”
The launch was witnessed by Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, senior officers from the Strategic Plans Divison and Strategic Forces Command as well as scientists and engineers from Strategic Organisations.
The ISPR said the missile system was “aimed at strengthening deterrence and enhancing strategic stability in the region through the operationalisation of Full Spectrum Deterrence in the overall construct of Credible Minimum Deterrence”.
On the occasion, the CJCSC appreciated the technical prowess, dedication and commitment of all those who contributed towards the successful test, the statement said.
It further stated that President Dr Arif Alvi, caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kkar and the services chiefs congratulated all members of the Strategic Forces on the achievement.
October 18,2023
Source: Dawn
Background
The Ababeel Weapon System is a ballistic missile system developed and deployed by Pakistan. It is designed primarily for the purpose of delivering nuclear warheads, serving as a deterrence tool against potential adversaries. Here are some key points about the Ababeel Weapon System:
Development and Purpose: The Ababeel missile system was developed by Pakistan’s military as part of its nuclear deterrence strategy. It is intended to enhance the country’s second-strike capability, which means it can be launched in response to a nuclear attack, thereby deterring potential aggressors.
Ballistic Missile Type: Ababeel is classified as an Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile (IRBM). This means it has a range that falls between that of short-range ballistic missiles and intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs).
Multiple Independently Targetable Reentry Vehicle (MIRV) Capability: One of the distinctive features of the Ababeel system is its capability to carry multiple independently targetable reentry vehicles (MIRVs). This technology allows a single missile to carry multiple warheads, each capable of targeting different locations. MIRVs enhance the missile’s effectiveness and make it more challenging for missile defense systems to intercept.
Range and Payload: The exact specifications of the Ababeel missile, including its range and payload capacity, are not publicly disclosed, but it is estimated to have a range of several thousand kilometers and the ability to carry multiple nuclear warheads.
Counterforce and Counter-Value Targeting: Ababeel can be used for both counterforce and countervalue targeting. Counterforce refers to the targeting of an adversary’s military and strategic assets, while countervalue targeting aims at causing damage to an adversary’s cities and population centers.
Strategic Implications: The development of the Ababeel Weapon System has strategic implications for the region and international security. It adds to the complexity of South Asia’s security environment, where both Pakistan and India possess nuclear arsenals.