Pakistan Launches New Army Rocket Force to Boost Defense

Islamabad, Aug 14 (PTI) — Pakistan has unveiled the formation of a new military division known as the Army Rocket Force, equipped with state-of-the-art technology to enhance its defense capabilities.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced the initiative late Wednesday during a ceremony marking Pakistan's 78th Independence Day and reflecting on a recent military standoff with India.

"The establishment of the Army Rocket Force Command represents a pivotal step forward in bolstering our nation's military response capabilities," Prime Minister Sharif stated, without delving into specifics about the new unit's duties.

Pakistan's move seems to draw inspiration from its strategic partner, China, specifically the People's Liberation Army Rocket Force, which manages an arsenal of land-based ballistic, hypersonic, and cruise missiles, both nuclear and conventional.

President Asif Ali Zardari, military chiefs, and numerous national and international dignitaries were present for the announcement.

The prime minister praised the brief military clash with India in May as a "significant victory," attributing Pakistan's nuclear prowess as a vital deterrent against India's nuclear capabilities.

"In just four days, India’s arrogance was shattered," Prime Minister Sharif claimed. He thanked U.S. President Donald Trump for reportedly helping broker a ceasefire between the two nations, emphasizing that the Kashmir conflict should be resolved under U.N. guidelines.

The skirmish, fueled by India’s Operation Sindoor starting on May 7, was a direct retaliation against the April 22 Pahalgam attack, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians.

After four intense days of cross-border drone and missile exchanges, an understanding was reportedly reached on May 10, with India asserting that the de-escalation agreement resulted from direct dialogue between the military operations leaders of both countries.

During his speech, Prime Minister Sharif expressed gratitude towards friendly nations — including China, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Azerbaijan, the UAE, and Iran — for supporting Pakistan during the confrontation.

He urged political parties, stakeholders, and civil society to unite for the protection of national interests, suggesting a framework that goes beyond economic recovery to embody broader national priorities.

Sharif reiterated Pakistan's sacrifices in its war on terror, which has cost 90,000 lives and over USD 150 billion in economic terms.

On the economic front, he highlighted his government’s achievements by citing a decrease in inflation from 34% to 5%, along with a reduction in interest rates from 21% to 11%.

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