Pakistan conducted last week successful training launch of surface to surface ballistic missile Shaheen-II. The training launch was aimed at training of troops, validating various technical parameters and performance evaluation of different sub-systems incorporated for improved accuracy and enhanced survivability.
The training launch was witnessed by Senior Officers from Strategic Plans Division, Army Strategic Forces Command, scientists and engineers of strategic organizations, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media and public relations wing of the Pakistan Armed Forces, reported.
Director General Strategic Plans Division appreciated the technical prowess, dedication and commitment of scientists who contributed towards this land mark achievement.
The President, Prime Minister of Pakistan, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee and Services Chiefs congratulated the scientists and engineers on this achievement.
The Shaheen-II (Hatf-6) medium-range ballistic missile is capable of striking targets up to 2,000 km away.
Developed by the National Engineering and Scientific Commission (NESCOM), the Shaheen-II ballistic missile can be equipped with both conventional and nuclear warheads.
It is considered one of the most advanced missiles in Pakistan’s arsenal, featuring Multiple Independent Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) capability, Defence Security Asia reported.
Reports indicate that Pakistan began developing ballistic missiles in the early 2000s, with the Shaheen-II entering strategic military service in 2014.
The missile weighs approximately 24,000 kg and can carry a conventional warhead of up to 1,200 kg.
It is a two-stage missile powered by solid propellant, with guidance systems using Inertial and Terminal technology, and a Circular Error Probable (CEP) of 350 meters.
In 2017, the United States estimated that Pakistan possessed up to 50 Shaheen-II ballistic missiles, and the number has likely increased one or twofold since then.
In January, Pakistan conducted a test launch of the Fatah-II missile, developed domestically by its weapons experts. (Sources: ISPR; Defence Security Asia; Photo © ISPR)
