Watch: Pakistan tests new air-to-air missile amid defence push

On Tuesday, November 3, Pakistan successfully tested its first domestically designed air-to-air missile, the Fa’az, signaling a major milestone in its defense modernization efforts. This comes as the country has conducted three significant missile tests in less than a month, indicating a rapid acceleration in its military capabilities.

The Fa’az, deployed from a JF-17 fighter jet, features an advanced terminal guidance system to target enemy aircraft from longer distances. The military emphasized that the missile will bolster the operational flexibility of the Pakistan Air Force, enhancing the nation's overall defense posture. The development of the Fa’az underscores Pakistan's growing self-reliance in aerospace technology and its commitment to reducing dependency on foreign defense systems.

While specific operational range details were not disclosed, the successful flight test was witnessed by senior military officials, scientists, and engineers who played crucial roles in the development. This latest achievement follows the successful tests of advanced surface-to-surface missiles in October, including the hypersonic Fatah-2 ER ballistic missile and the extended-range Fatah-IV ground-launched cruise missile, highlighting Pakistan's multifaceted approach to strengthening its defense arsenal.