Pak test fires 700 kms range Hatf VII nuke missile

This was the fifth missile test by Pakistan since late last month.

The test will consolidate Pakistan8217;s strategic deterrence capability and further strengthen national security, the military said.

The military described the Hatf-VII or Babur as an indigenously developed multi-tube cruise missile system. The missile is a low flying,terrain-hugging weapon with high manoeuvrability,pinpoint accuracy and radar avoidance features.

The Hatf-VII can carry nuclear or conventional warheads and has stealth capabilities.

It incorporates the terrain contour matching and digital scene matching and area co-relation technologies,which enhance the missile8217;s precision and effectiveness manifold,the military claimed.

The missile was launched from a multi-tube missile launch vehicle that significantly enhances the targetting and employment options of the Hatf-VII in both conventional and nuclear modes,the statement said.

The test was witnessed by Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee Chairman Gen Khalid Shameem Wynne,Strategic Plans Division Director General Lt Gen retired Khalid Ahmed Kidwai,senior officers of the armed forces and strategic organisations and scientists.

The President and Prime Minister congratulated the scientists and engineers,the statement said.

On April 25,it tested an improved version of the nuclear-capable Hatf-IV intermediate range ballistic missile with the range of 1,000 kms.

The launch came just six days after India tested the Agni-V missile with a range of 5,000 kms.

On May 10,Pakistan tested the nuclear-capable Hatf-III ballistic missile with a range of 290 kms.

The launch was conducted at the conclusion of an annual field training exercise of the Army Strategic Force Command.

The nuclear-capable Hatf-IX missile with a range of 60 kms was tested on May 29,reflecting the Pakistani military8217;s thrust on developing tactical weapons aimed at deterring India8217;s purported Cold Start doctrine.

The Hatf-IX missile system possesses shoot and scoot attributes.

On May 31,the military tested a version of the Hatf-VIII cruise missile with a range of over 350 kms. The military said this test had helped Pakistan achieve strategic standoff capability on land and at sea.

In a message issued after the test of the Hatf-VII missile,Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani said Pakistan was a peaceful country but would take all steps for its defence.

The government is committed to defend the country,he said.

The premier congratulated the nation on the successful launch of the Hatf-VII missile and lauded the skill of the scientists and engineers involved in the test.