Pakistan tests long-range surface-to-surface ballistic missile

ISLAMABAD -- Pakistan has conducted its first successful flight test of surface-to-surface ballistic missile, which has a maximum range of 2200 kilometers, the military said Tuesday.

The "Ababeel" missile is capable of delivering multiple warheads, using Multiple Independent Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology, an army statement said.

"The test flight was aimed at validating various design and technical parameters of the weapon system," the statement from the Inter-Services Public Relations said.

"Ababeel" is capable of carrying nuclear warheads and has the capability to engage multiple targets with high precision, defeating the enemy's hostile radars, the military said.

"Development of Ababeel' Weapon System is aimed at ensuring survivability of Pakistan's ballistic missiles in the growing regional Ballistic Missile Defense environment. This will further reinforce deterrence."

President and prime minister of Pakistan conveyed their appreciation to the team involved and armed forces of Pakistan on this landmark achievement.

The top military leaders have also congratulated the scientists and engineers on successful conduct of missile test, the statement said.

This is the second time Pakistan has test fired missiles this month.

On Jan. 8, Pakistan conducted its first successful test fire of submarine launched cruise missile "Babur-3," having a range of 450 kilometers. The missile was fired from an underwater, mobile platform and hit its target with precise accuracy, according to the military.