Pakistan successfully tests nuclear-capable Hatf-II missile

Pakistan on Friday successfully tested the nuclear-capable Hatf-II ballistic missile with a range of 180 kms, marking the second test of a missile system in four days as part of measures to evaluate the capabilities of its Strategic Forces.

The test of the Hatf-II or Abdali short range surface-to-surface ballistic missile was part of the "process of validation of land-based ballistic missile systems", the military said in a statement.

It described the test as successful but did not say where it was conducted. The missile can carry nuclear or conventional warheads with "high accuracy", the statement said.

"The weapon system with its varied maneuverability options provides an operational level capability to Pakistans Strategic Forces," it said.

The military had said the weapon system was specially designed to defeat anti-tactical missile defence systems. Analysts say the short-range Hatf-IX missile is primarily aimed at deterring India's Cold Start military doctrine, which envisages quick thrusts by small integrated battle groups in the event of hostilities.

The President and Prime Minister congratulated the scientists and engineers on the test "which consolidates Pakistans deterrence capability both at the operational and strategic levels", the statement added.