Army tests longer range version of hypersonic missile

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RAWALPINDI: Pakistan Army successfully test-launched the Fatah-2 extended range (ER) hypersonic ballistic missile, the military’s media wing said in a statement on Tuesday.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the Fatah-2 ER is equipped with advanced navigation and state-of-the-art avionics.

“It is capable of engaging targets with high precision and defeating [the] enemy’s missile defence systems due to its unique trajectory and manoeuvrability features,” the statement said.

“Fatah-2 ER, with its extended range, will further enhance [the] army’s reach and capability of engaging deep targets.”

The test launch was witnessed by Army Rocket Force Command (ARFC) chief Lt Gen Nauman Zakaria, senior army officers, scientists and engineers.

The ARFC commander “appreciated the dedication and technical prowess of scientists and engineers”, the ISPR said.

It further said the president, prime minister, and the chief of defence forces congratulated the scientists and engineers on the successful test launch of the “extended range version of Fatah-2 weapon system”.

Last week, the indigenously developed extended version of the Fatah-IV ground-launched cruise missile also underwent a successful test launch.

In a statement, ISPR said: “Equipped with advanced avionics and state-of-the-art navigational aids, the weapon system is capable of engaging targets at extended ranges with high precision and lethality.

“The test also validated additional technical parameters of various sub-systems incorporated for improved accuracy and enhanced survivability.”

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi congratulated the nation on the success of the test.

In a statement on X, he said: “The scientists and engineers of the Pakistan Army have accomplished a matter of pride.”

Published in Dawn, October 14th, 2026

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