Pakistan’s Fatah-Abdali Farce? India’s firepower will crush it!

Pakistan’s recent missile tests, flaunting its Fatah (120-km range) and Abdali (450-km range) surface-to-surface missiles, are making headlines. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) claims these tests showcase their “operational readiness” and “advanced navigation systems.” But let’s be honest—does this really disturb India’s sleep? Not one bit! India’s missile arsenal, backed by cutting-edge technology and a robust defence strategy, towers over Pakistan’s posturing. As tensions simmer after the tragic Pahalgam attack that claimed 26 lives, Pakistan’s missile flexing is nothing but a weak attempt to rattle India. Let’s break it down and see why India remains unfazed.

First, let’s talk about Pakistan’s missiles. The Fatah, with its 120-km range, is a short-range tactical missile. The Abdali, stretching to 450 km, is a bit more ambitious but still falls in the short-to-medium range category. Pakistan says these tests validate their accuracy and navigation systems. Fair enough, but when you compare them to India’s missile might, it’s like comparing a scooter to a supersonic jet.

India’s missile programme, led by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), is a global powerhouse. Take the Agni series, for instance. The Agni-V, with a range of over 5,000 km, can reach far beyond Pakistan, covering most of Asia and parts of Europe. Even the Agni-III (3,000 km) and Agni-IV (4,000 km) are leagues ahead of Pakistan’s Abdali. These missiles are not just about range—they boast pinpoint accuracy, advanced guidance systems, and the ability to carry nuclear warheads, making them a formidable deterrent. Pakistan’s Fatah? It’s a local player at best, while India’s missiles play on the world stage.

Then there’s the Prithvi series , India’s battle-tested short-range ballistic missiles. The Prithvi-II, with a range of 350 km, matches or exceeds Pakistan’s Fatah in both range and precision. Unlike Pakistan’s missiles, which are still in the “testing” phase, Prithvi missiles are fully operational, deployed, and trusted by the Indian Army. And let’s not forget the BrahMos , the world’s fastest supersonic cruise missile, jointly developed with Russia. With a range of 450 km (and plans to extend it further), BrahMos can strike with surgical precision from land, sea, or air. Can Pakistan’s missiles match this speed or versatility? Not even close.

Pakistan’s tests come at a time when it’s trying to flex its muscles after the Pahalgam terror attack, for which a Lashkar-e-Taiba offshoot claimed responsibility. India’s response has been swift and strong—suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, revoking visas for Pakistani nationals, and giving the military “complete operational freedom” to act. The Indian Air Force’s Aakraman  exercise, showcasing Rafale jets and top pilots, and the Navy’s display of readiness sent a clear message: India is prepared for any challenge. The recent “land and go” operation by IAF jets on the Ganga Expressway is a testament to India’s innovative and battle-ready forces. Pakistan’s response? Firing along the LoC and parading missiles that pale in comparison.

Let’s also talk strategy. India’s missile systems are backed by a strong anti-missile defence shield. The Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD)  system, with interceptors like the Prithvi Air Defence (PAD) and Advanced Air Defence (AAD), can neutralise incoming threats. Pakistan’s missiles, with their limited range and predictable trajectories, would struggle to penetrate this shield. India’s satellite surveillance and early-warning systems further ensure that no threat goes unnoticed. Pakistan, on the other hand, lacks a comparable defence network, making its bravado more noise than substance.

The truth is, Pakistan’s missile tests are more about domestic propaganda than a real challenge to India. While they beat their chests about Fatah and Abdali, India’s focus remains on self-reliance and innovation. Projects like the Hypersonic Technology Demonstrator Vehicle (HSTDV) and the upcoming Agni-VI  show India’s ambition to stay ahead in the global arms race. Pakistan’s missiles, by contrast, are outdated and limited, relying heavily on foreign technology.

In the end, Pakistan’s Fatah and Abdali are like firecrackers—loud but harmless against India’s arsenal of fireworks. India’s missiles, defence systems, and military readiness ensure that we sleep soundly, knowing our borders are secure. Pakistan’s provocations, whether through terror attacks or missile tests, will always meet a fitting reply from a strong, united, and resilient India. So, let Pakistan keep testing its toys—India’s strength lies in its actions, not just words.

Jai Hind!

( The author Girish Linganna of this article is an award-winning Science Writer and a Defence, Aerospace & Political Analyst based in Bengaluru. He is also Director of ADD Engineering Components, India, Pvt. Ltd, a subsidiary of ADD Engineering GmbH, Germany. You can reach him at: girishlinganna@gmail.com )

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