Fatah-1 missile launched against India in memory of martyred children

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan launched a series of Fatah-1 missiles targeting key Indian military installations as part of its Operation Bunyan un Marsoos in early hours of Saturday.

The operation is described by Pakistani officials as a direct response to “unprovoked Indian aggression”, which has resulted in civilian casualties, including deaths of several children in border areas.

Read more: LIVE: Pakistan counter-attack to India – Operation Bunyan Marsoos

Tribute to martyred children

The missile strikes were dedicated to the memory of Pakistani children who lost their lives during the recent Indian attacks. An official statement from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) stated that the Al-Fateh missiles carry the names of these children.

“Pakistan has neither forgotten nor will ever forget the martyrdom of its innocent children”, the ISPR stated.

What are Fatah-1 missiles

The Fatah-1 missile system is a short-range missile developed indigenously developed in Pakistan. It is capable of striking targets up to 150 kilometres (km) away. The missile provides a rapid response capability against nearby threats and has been engaged in targeting military facilities as part of Pakistan’s response to Indian aggression.

Meanwhile, Pakistan also developed Fatah-II missile system, which is a guided artillery rocket system. The Fatah-II is considered an updated version of Fatah-1, featuring an extended range and improved accuracy.

It was first officially tested by Pakistan army in 2021.

Targeted military installations

The choice of targets in this operation include critical military infrastructure, such as the BrahMos missile storage facility in Beas, the Udhampur airbase and the Pathankot airfield, among other.

Pakistan stated it targeted all facilities involved in the attacks on its airbases on May 10.

Focus on minimising civilian casualties

Military sources confirmed that the strikes were executed with a focus on minimising civilian casualties on the Indian side. This contrasts Pakistan’s approach with that of its neighbour, who used an “indiscriminate and reckless” one.

Footage released by the military showed multiple launched of the Fatah-1 missiles from undisclosed locations.

Read more: Pakistan launches counter-offensive: Operation Bunyan Marsoos

Immediate Indian response

The missile strikes have resulted in explosions near key airbases in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). Reports indicate that India heightened its state of alert.