In a dramatic escalation between two nuclear-armed neighbours, Pakistan on Saturday blamed India for carrying out missile attacks on several military bases. The Pakistani military claimed that India attacked three strategic air bases—Nur Khan in Rawalpindi, Murid in Chakwal, and Rafiqui in Jhang district of Punjab province.
With the world holding its breath, the situation became more intense when Pakistan allegedly carried out a retaliatory attack using its newly designed Fatah-II missile.
Fatah-II: Pakistan’s Guided Reaction
In retaliation for the reported Indian missile attacks, Pakistan is said to have launched its Fatah-II missile, targeting a strategic Indian site. Unconfirmed but widely reported, Indian air defence systems reportedly intercepted the projectile. The Pakistan Army spokesperson, Lt Gen. Ahmad Sharif, said, “Missiles struck the Nur Khan base in Rawalpindi, the Murid base in Chakwal, and the Rafiqui base in Jhang district of Punjab province.”
The Fatah-II missile, which was test-fired in December 2021, is a major technological advancement in the artillery rocket capabilities of Pakistan. Meant for precision attacks, the missile features a range of around 250 to 400 kilometers and comes with terminal guidance systems.
Its flat trajectory, inertial and satellite-guided navigation, and sophisticated avionics enable the missile to penetrate deep into the adversary’s territory with a Circular Error Probable (CEP) of under 10 meters. Furthermore, its mobile launcher increases its operational flexibility across different environments.
India’s Strategic Advantage
India, in turn, has a strong missile inventory indigenously designed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Its equivalent systems are the Prahar, Pinaka, and the BrahMos cruise missile, each of which is capable of precise strikes and instant deployment.
Indian air defence systems reportedly intercepted the Fatah-II missile successfully, showcasing the nation’s multi-layered defence capability.
Background: What Provoked the Exchange
The rapid exchange came after rising cross-border tensions in recent weeks. While the specific provocation is still in dispute, Pakistan’s allegation constitutes a notable escalation in rhetoric and behavior. Both sides have so far withheld detailed satellite or monitoring data, keeping most of the details murky.
Still, the incidents underscore the imperative for de-escalation mechanisms to avoid accidental war between two highly militarized countries.
