Pakistan test fired short range nuclear capable missile Hatf IX

Pakistan on 26 September 2014 test fired the Hatf IX -short range surface-to-surface missile. The nuclear capable missile also called as Nasr was tested with successive launches of four missiles from a Multi Tube Launcher with Salvo Mode.

It is a nuclear capable ballistic missile with a maximum range of 60 kilometers can cover western parts of India. With in-flight manoeuvre capability Hatf IX is a quick response system with shoot and scoot capability.

Earlier Pakistan had tested the Hatf IX missile in 2011 and 2012. The development of the missile is in line with Pakistan’s objective of developing a full spectrum of deterrence against the prevailing threat spectrum.

Commentary
The test fire of Hatf IX is in line with the Pakistan’s objective of developing a second strike capability if a catastrophic nuclear attack destroyed all its land-based weapons.

In line with above objective Pakistan has repeatedly tested Babur cruise missile their indigenously produced, nuclear-capable. It has a range of 640 km and can strike targets at land and sea.

Besides, Pakistan is said to be developing shorter-range cruise missiles that can fly lower to the ground and can evade ballistic missile defences and developing sea-based missiles.

Nuclear push of Pakistan comes amid heightened tension with US intelligence and congressional officials over the security of Pakistan's nuclear weapons.