Pakistan test-fires latest version of ballistic missile

PAKISTAN today successfully test-fired a new version of a medium-range ballistic missile capable of carrying a nuclear warhead, a military statement said.

The army's Strategic Missile Group launched the Ghauri missile, which has a range of 810 miles from an undisclosed location.

The exercise, which follows the testing of another missile last week, is seen as part of Pakistan's efforts to boost its defence capabilities,

President Pervez Musharraf, the army chief and other officials witnessed the test, according to the statement.

Musharraf said Pakistan had developed a strong nuclear deterrent.

He said: "All needs for the strategic capability as per Pakistan's minimum deterrence requirements will be met."

And he dismissed concern that Pakistan's nuclear weapons could fall into the hands of Islamist militants and said such fears were put forward by those who did not wish Pakistan well.