Global Security Newswire

Pakistan on Friday announced the successful trial launch of a nuclear-capable cruise missile, Agence France-Presse reported (see GSN, July 25).

The Pakistani armed forces described the Hatf 7 missile used in the test as a "low-flying, terrain-hugging missile with high maneuverability, pinpoint accuracy and radar avoidance features." The cruise missile can travel up to 435 miles and can carry conventional and nuclear payloads, according to the report.

Previous reporting on Hatf 7 tests said the missile had a range of up to 373 miles (see GSN, Feb. 10).

Pakistan said Friday's test demonstrated the viability of a new multiple-tube missile firing platform.

"The three tube [missile launch vehicle] enhances manifold (times) the targeting and deployment options in the conventional and nuclear modes," the military said (Agence France-Presse/Google News, Oct. 28).