![Bangladesh seeks to acquire Abdali SRBM from Pakistan to strengthen its defense amid growing tensions with India. [Image via AFP/ISPR]](https://southasiatimes.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/30001814ee221bc.webp)
Bangladesh is aiming to acquire short-range ballistic missiles (SRBMs) from Pakistan. Specifically, it seeks the “Abdali SRBM” to deter any possible Indian attack. This move comes amid deteriorating ties, an Indian media report has claimed.
India.com, citing an intelligence report, claimed that Dhaka had approached Islamabad to procure the Abdali SRBM. The missile boasts a range of 400km. Observers see the move as an effort to strengthen Bangladesh’s defence capabilities. It also aims to deter any potential aggression from India.
The report comes more than a week after the United States imposed additional sanctions on four Pakistan-based entities for their alleged involvement in the country’s ballistic missile programme.
“The United States will continue to act against proliferation and associated procurement activities of concern,” the State Department said in its statement.
The entities include the Islamabad-based National Development Complex and three Karachi-based companies: Affiliates International, Akhtar and Sons Private Limited, and Rockside Enterprise.
Also See: The Curious Case of Pakistan’s “Second-Strike” Capability
Pakistan May Approve Sale
The defence website Indian Defence Research Wing reported that Pakistan is “likely to comply” with the request to “enhance its regional influence.” The sale “will not significantly alter the strategic balance against Pakistan” because the missiles have a short range. These missiles are aimed at India, with whom Bangladesh shares an extensive border.
The report alleged that in order to meet Bangladesh’s request for Abdali SRBMs, Pakistan must navigate complex global arms control frameworks like the Missile Technology Control Regime. Although neither nation is a member of the MTCR, such regulations could significantly impact Islamabad’s final decision.
Experts warn that the Abdali SRBM, known as “Hatf-II in the Pakistan Army, could represent a considerable threat to India’s northeastern states. Despite its limited range, the tactical ballistic missile is capable of reaching major cities in Northeastern India.
Pakistan’s Space Research Commission developed the Abdali missile system, engineering it for rapid response in battlefield scenarios.
This news is sourced from Aaj News and is intended for informational purposes only.
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