ISLAMABAD, Oct 12: Pakistan on Tuesday morning carried out another successful test of the indigenously-produced intermediate-range ballistic missile Hatf V (Ghauri) as part of a series of tests planned for the Ghauri Missile System.

An announcement by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said the test completely validated all design parameters. "The successful flight test bears testimony to the fact that the Ghauri Weapons System is based on the highest standards of scientific and technological advancements.

It incorporates highly refined guidance and control systems and superior technology capable of achieving the greatest accuracy," the announcement said. According to the ISPR, the Ghauri missile has a range of nearly 1500 kilometres and can carry nuclear and other warheads. It was handed over to the Army Strategic Forces Command in 2003.

Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz and Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Ehsan ul Haq witnessed the test firing, besides other senior military officers and scientists. Without disclosing the location where the test was carried out, the ISPR said all neighbouring countries had been given advance notification of the test.

Meanwhile, President Gen Pervez Musharraf and Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz have expressed satisfaction at the results achieved and complimented the scientists and engineers of the KRL and NDC.