Amid rising tensions with India, Pakistan on Saturday conducted a successful test of the Abdali surface-to-surface ballistic missile, which has a range of 450 km. The launch was part of a military drill named 'Exercise INDUS' and took place at the Sonmiani Ranges. It was reportedly an operational trial overseen by the Army Strategic Forces Command (ASFC), which manages Pakistan’s nuclear-capable arsenal. Top military officials, scientists, and engineers were present at the launch, which was aimed at validating troop readiness and reinforcing Pakistan’s minimum credible deterrence.

The test follows warnings from Indian sources who anticipated such a launch and called it a provocative and dangerous escalation. Pakistan has also intensified naval drills in the Arabian Sea and increased ceasefire violations along the LoC and International Border, fearing possible Indian retaliation for the recent Pahalgam terror attack.

Meanwhile, India has asserted its military strength. Following Prime Minister Modi’s directive for “complete operational freedom,” the Indian armed forces have conducted major exercises, including the IAF’s Ganga Expressway "land and go" operation and the large-scale 'Aakraman' drill involving Rafale jets.