Source: LIVEMINT

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Context

The test is being interpreted in the context of rising regional tensions and Pakistan’s continued focus on tactical nuclear weapons.

Details

According to the Global Firepower ranking, India is fourth, while Pakistan is ranked 12th among 145 countries considered for the annual review.

According to Military Watch Magazine, India falls among Tier 2 military powers, while Pakistan falls among Tier 3 military powers.

India's military expenditure in 2024 was nearly nine times higher than Pakistan's, according to a report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute.

The report highlighted that India, the world’s fifth-largest military spender, increased its defence budget by 1.6%, reaching $86.1 billion, while Pakistan's military spending stood at $10.2 billion for the same period.

About the Abdali Missile

Technological Features

Solid-Fuel Propulsion enables rapid launch readiness and long-term storage without degradation.

Advanced Inertial Navigation increases strike accuracy, making it suitable for counterforce and countervalue targeting.

TEL-Based Mobility enhances survivability and allows quick repositioning and surprise launches.

Strategic Implications

For South Asia

The enhanced range of 450 km brings major Indian cities and military assets within range.

Demonstrates Pakistan’s focus on tactical nuclear weapons as part of its Full Spectrum Deterrence doctrine.

For India

India must evaluate the evolving nature of Pakistan’s battlefield nuclear posture.

The development may impact India’s nuclear command and control structures especially under its No First Use doctrine.

For Global Security

Adds to global concerns about nuclear escalation in a region marked by cross-border tensions. 

Raises proliferation risks and challenges to non-proliferation treaties though neither India nor Pakistan is a signatory to the NPT.

Sources:

LIVEMINT