ISLAMABAD, March 22: Pakistan on Thursday successfully test-fired an indigenously developed cruise missile, Babur (Hatf-VII). “The flight data collected validated the design parameters set for the flight test,” a statement issued by the ISPR said.

Babur, which was first tested in 2005, is a terrain hugging, radar avoiding cruise missile, whose range has now been enhanced to 700kms. It is a highly manoeuvrable missile with pinpoint accuracy. Babur is capable of carrying a variety of warheads, including nuclear, the statement says.

The test was witnessed by Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee Chairman General Ehsanul Haq, senior military officers and scientists of strategic organisations.

The test is part of Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to consolidate its strategic capability and strengthen national security.

President Gen Pervez Musharraf and Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz congratulated scientists and engineers for the achievement.