ISLAMABAD, Feb 1: Pakistan on Friday carried out a successful training launch of nuclear capable intermediate range Ghauri (Hatf V) ballistic missile. The missile has a range of 1,300km.

According to an official announcement, the launch by the strategic missile group of the Army’s Strategic Force Command came at the conclusion of the annual field training exercises.

Part of the exercise and the missile launch were witnessed by President Pervez Musharraf and Chief of Army Staff Gen Ashfaq Parvez Kayani.

The president said that the nation had developed a strong nuclear deterrence capability. “We have taken note of various imaginary scenarios being propounded by those who do not wish Pakistan well. Such elements have never reconciled to a nuclear Pakistan.” The president said Pakistan was capable of thwarting all threats to its sovereignty.