The launch of the Abdali Weapon System was aimed at ensuring the "operational readiness of troops and validating key technical parameters", including the missile's advanced navigation system and enhanced manoeuvrability features, according to a statement from the military. Pakistan's president Asif Ali Zardari and prime minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated the scientists, engineers and those behind the successful missile test. The country's information minister Attaullah Tarar said days before Pakistan had "credible intelligence" that India was planning to attack it within days. Mr Tarar vowed in a statement to respond "very strongly" if Pakistan comes under attack by its nuclear rival.

Amid the brewing tensions between India and Pakistan following the devastating Pahalgam terror attack, Islamabad has claimed that it has successfully tested a surface-to-surface ballistic missile, which has the potential to hit targets that are at 450 km. Pakistan confirmed the testing of the missile on Saturday and claimed that the launch was part of Exercise INDUS. Tensions between India and Pakistan reached their peak after terrorists with links to Lashkar-e-Taiba, a Pakistan-based terror group, infiltrated a tourist destination in Pahalgam, Kashmir and killed 26 people.

The missile weapon System, was launched as part of Exercise INDUS. The test, conducted by the Pakistani military, is seen as a demonstration of the country’s defence capabilities and technological advancements in missile development. According to official sources, the missile was launched from an undisclosed location and hit its designated target with precision. The Pakistani government has framed the test as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen national security and maintain strategic deterrence in the region.