Pakistan to Test Missile over Arabian Sea on May 14-15, 2024

Pakistan has announced a no-fly zone over the Arabian Sea for May 14-15, signaling plans for a missile test near Akro Garrison, a site associated with nuclear capabilities. This follows Pakistan’s October 18, 2023, test of the Ababeel medium-range ballistic missile, notable for its multiple independently targetable re-entry vehicle (MIRV) technology, a first in South Asia.

The Ababeel remains in development, marking a significant step since the April 2022 launch of the Shaheen-III missile. The upcoming test coincides with the tenure of Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir and reflects continued advancements in Pakistan’s missile technology, aimed at overcoming India’s emerging missile defenses.

Meanwhile, India has enhanced its missile capabilities, conducting a successful test of the Agni-5 intercontinental ballistic missile on March 11, 2024. This missile, capable of delivering multiple nuclear warheads, places India among a select group of nations with advanced long-range missile technologies, including the United Kingdom, France, Russia, and China