ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Navy has successfully conducted a flight test ofits indigenously developed ship-launched anti-ship ballistic missile,marking a significant advancement in the country’s maritime defensecapabilities. The test, carried out from a naval vessel, demonstrated themissile’s precision and range, underscoring Pakistan’s commitment tobolstering its strategic deterrence in the region. Officials confirmed thatthe missile, known as SMASH, achieved all designated parameters during thetrial, which was observed by senior naval commanders and technical experts.
This achievement comes at a time when regional security dynamics areevolving, with increased focus on naval power projection. The SMASHmissile, with an estimated range of 350 kilometers, is designed to targetenemy ships with high-speed supersonic capabilities, providing a robustanti-access and area denial option. The development of this weapon systemreflects years of indigenous research and collaboration between militaryinstitutions and defense industries in Pakistan, reducing reliance onforeign technology.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended theircongratulations to the Pakistan Navy and the scientific team involved inthe project. In separate statements, they highlighted the test’s success asa testament to the nation’s resolve in safeguarding its sovereignty andmaritime interests. The leaders emphasized that such advancementscontribute to maintaining peace and stability in the Indian Ocean region byensuring a credible defense posture.
The flight test has drawn attention from international observers, who noteits implications for naval warfare strategies in South Asia. Analystssuggest that the SMASH missile could alter the balance of power at sea,particularly in contested waters. Pakistan’s Navy has assured that thedevelopment is purely defensive and aligns with international norms on armscontrol and non-proliferation.
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Further details on the missile’s specifications remain classified, butsources indicate it incorporates advanced guidance systems for evadingcountermeasures. This test is part of a broader series of militaryexercises aimed at enhancing operational readiness. The Pakistan Navycontinues to invest in modernizing its fleet, including submarines andsurface vessels, to address emerging threats effectively.
In the context of ongoing geopolitical tensions, this successful testreinforces Pakistan’s position as a capable maritime force. It also servesas a morale booster for the armed forces and the scientific community,encouraging further innovations in defense technology. The event highlightsthe importance of self-reliance in strategic sectors for national security.Source:www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2024/11/pakistan-navy-conducts-successful-flight-test-of-homegrown-smash-slbm/”>https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2024/11/pakistan-navy-conducts-successful-flight-test-of-homegrown-smash-slbm/