Shaheen II, the long range ballistic missile capable of carrying nuclear and conventional explosives was test fired by Pakistan on Saturday. Shaheen II, also known as Hatf-VI surface to surface ballistic missile, is capable of targeting Indian cities.

 

Shaheen II is capable of hitting targets up to 2000 kms with high accuracy. The test fire was witnessed by the Pakistani Prime minister Yousuf Gilani, Pakistani Defence minister Chaudhry Ahmed Mukhtar and the chairman of joint Chiefs of Staffs Commitee General Tariq Majid.

 

Meanwhile many defense analysts believe that the missile test will put off all concerns regarding the leaking of nuclear secret to other countries as confessed by Dr AQ Khan. Shaheen I was tested in October 2002 and the Mr. Gilani said that the missile will further strengthen the national security of the country and will ensure peace in the region.