Key Indian cities fall within range of Pakistan’s new missile
‘Abdali changes tactical equation in a big way’
NEWS ANALYSIS
May 4, 2025
THE successful testing of the Abdali Weapon System — a short-range ballistic missile with a declared range of 450 kilometres — has significantly expanded Pakistan’s tactical reach across its eastern border. Military analysts say the missile, capable of carrying both conventional and nuclear warheads, places dozens of Indian cities within range — a development that carries strategic implications amid escalating tensions.
The test comes in the wake of renewed hostilities between the two neighbours following a deadly attack in Occupied Kashmir, which New Delhi has blamed on Pakistan-based militants — an allegation Islamabad has denied.
Courtesy: Dawn News
According to defence experts, if launched from areas near Lahore or Sialkot, the Abdali missile could strike deep into Indian territories, taking out urban centres across multiple northern states including Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, and even parts of western Uttar Pradesh.
Cities falling within missile’s range
Punjab
Amritsar, Pathankot, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur
Haryana
Chandigarh (Union Territory), Ambala, Panchkula, Karnal
Himachal Pradesh
Dharamshala, Shimla, Solan, Mandi
Uttarakhand
Dehradun, Haridwar, Roorkee
Rajasthan
Sri Ganganagar, Bikaner, Hanumangarh
Uttar Pradesh
Saharanpur, Muzaffarnagar, Meerut (western edge).
Defence analysts point out that many of these cities have military cantonments, airbases, or strategic infrastructure, making them potential high-value targets. For instance, Ambala has an Indian Air Force base that now houses Rafale jets, while Udhampur serves as a Northern Command HQ for the Indian Army.
“The Abdali test was not simply about showcasing range — it was a clear statement about Pakistan’s ability to target vital Indian assets in case of conflict,” said retired Pakistani brigadier and security analyst Feroz Khan. “It changes the tactical equation in a way that is impossible to ignore.”
Although the Abdali missile is classified as a battlefield-range system, its precision-guided capabilities and dual-purpose warhead options significantly increase its deterrence value. The launch has been described by the Pakistani military as part of a routine readiness exercise, but the timing — following increased military exercises on the Indian side — has raised eyebrows among regional observers.