ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Monday conducted a successful training launch of a Fatah series surface-to-surface missile, marking the second missile test in three days amid escalating tensions with India following the Pahalgam attack.

`Pakistan today conducted a successful training launch of a FATAH Series surface-tosurface missile,` the InterServices Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement.

While the statement did not specify the exact variant, the missile`s range-mentioned as 120 kilometres indicates it was likely the Fatah-I, a guided multiple launch rocket system (GMLRS) developed indigenously by Pakistan, which carries a conventional warhead.

The launch was part of Exercise Indus, a military drill aimed at validating combat readiness. On Saturday, Pakistan tested an enhanced version of its nuclear-capable Abadali missile.

`The launch was aimed at ensuring the operational readiness of troops and validating key technical parameters, including the missile`s advanced navigation system and enhanced accuracy,` ISPR said.Military leadership expressed `complete confidence in the operational preparedness and technical proficiency of Pakistan Army to thwart any aggression against the territorial integrity of Pakistan,` the statement added.

The Fatah missile series represents a significant leap in Pakistan`s defence capabilities, reflecting a strategic shift toward indigenous development and precision-guided weaponry. The Fatah-I, introduced on Jan 7, 2021, is Pakistan`s first homegrown Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS). It was developed by the stateowned Global Industrial & Defence Solutions (GIDS) as part of a modernisation program aimed at replacing older unguided systems such as the Yarmouk series.

With a range of 140 kilometres, the Fatah-I surpass legacy systems like the A-100 MLRS and is designed to engage high-value targets inside enemy territory. Its development was launched in 2015-16 as part of efforts to enhance long-range rocket artillery capabilities.

The Fatah-I and its advanced variant Fatah-II underscore Pakistan`s growing emphasis on stand-off capabilities.