Islamabad, Aug 14 (V7N) – Pakistan has officially announced the formation of a new military wing, the Army Rocket Force, aimed at strengthening the country’s missile capabilities. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif made the announcement on the occasion of Pakistan’s Independence Day, describing it as a milestone in enhancing national defense.

The newly created unit will be tasked with overseeing the deployment and operation of various types of rockets, hypersonic weapons, and ballistic missiles. According to officials, the force will be equipped with cutting-edge technology to deter enemy aggression and ensure swift retaliation if required.

The decision follows heightened tensions with neighboring India. In the Pakistan-India conflict earlier this May, both nations reportedly deployed rockets and missiles during retaliatory strikes. Islamabad also claimed to have launched its Fatah missiles toward Indian territory during the exchange.

A statement from the Prime Minister’s Office highlighted that the Army Rocket Force would significantly boost the Pakistan Army’s combat readiness. “I believe this modern and highly equipped unit will mark a new era in Pakistan’s defense capabilities,” Prime Minister Sharif said.

Defense analysts note that the unit is expected to be modeled after China’s People’s Liberation Army Rocket Force, which is responsible for managing strategic missile systems. The Pakistani version will reportedly monitor ballistic, hypersonic, and cruise missiles, as well as short- and long-range rockets — potentially signaling a shift in the country’s military doctrine.

Since gaining independence from British rule in 1947, both nuclear-armed neighbors, Pakistan and India, have continued to expand their military capabilities in a parallel arms race.

END/SMA/AJ