ISLAMABAD: Army`s strategic forces on Monday successfully conducted the `training launch` of Shaheen-I ballistic missile, which is capable of carrying nuclear warheads.

`The launch was conducted as part of a training exercise aimed at testing the operational readiness of Army Strategic Forces Command,` the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement after the test, which was witnessedby Director General of Strategic Plans Division Lt Gen Sarfraz Sattar, Commander Army Strategic Forces Command Lt Gen Q azi Muhammad Ikram Ahmad and other senior of ficials.

The ISPR said that troops involved in the exercise displayed `a high standard of proficiency in handling and operating the potent weapon system`. The operational readiness of the troops,it added, ensured Pakistan`s credible minimum deterrence.

Shaheen-I missile is capable of delivering both conventional and nuclear warheads up to a range of 650 kilometres.