RAWALPINDI: The Pakistan Army on Tuesday successfully carried out a training launch of the indigenously developed Fatah-4 ground-launched cruise missile, with a range of 750 kilometres.
ISPR says new missile will enhance reach, lethality, and survivability of Army’s conventional systems
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the missile is equipped with advanced avionics and modern navigational systems, enabling it to evade enemy air defences through terrain-hugging flight paths and deliver highly precise strikes on designated targets.
The military’s media wing stated that Fatah-4, developed under the Army Rocket Force Command, significantly enhances the Army’s conventional missile capabilities in terms of range, accuracy, lethality, and survivability.
The test was witnessed by senior military officials, including the Chief of General Staff, along with scientists and engineers who contributed to the missile’s design and development. President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, and Services Chiefs congratulated the troops, scientists, and engineers on the successful launch.
Pakistan India tensions
The launch comes months after the recent escalation between Pakistan and India. The standoff began on April 22, when an attack in Pahalgam left 26 people dead. India immediately accused Pakistan of involvement, an allegation strongly rejected by Islamabad.
In retaliation, India suspended the 65-year-old Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), cancelled Pakistani visas, shut down the Wagah-Attari border crossing, ordered the closure of Pakistan’s High Commission in New Delhi, and reduced diplomatic staff on both sides.
Tensions peaked on May 7, when Indian missile strikes hit six cities in Punjab and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), destroying a mosque and killing dozens of civilians, including women and children.
Pakistan responded by downing multiple Indian warplanes, including three Rafale jets. On May 10, after India struck several Pakistani airbases with missiles, Pakistan launched Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, targeting Indian military facilities such as missile storage depots, airbases, and other strategic sites.
The conflict was halted later that day after US President Donald Trump intervened and announced a ceasefire agreement, which was confirmed by Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and India’s foreign secretary.
