The Indian Navy Thursday stated that a surface-to-air missile had been successfully test-fired from its newest indigenous guided missile destroyer, INS Surat. The missile successfully intercepted and destroyed an approaching, low-flying target traveling quickly at sea level, which represents an important milestone in maritime defense capabilities of India.
Indian Navy has carried out ‘precision cooperative engagement of a sea skimming target’, says statement pic.twitter.com/wwfovis8gh
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) April 24, 2025
Following the terror attack, tensions have been prevailing between India and Pakistan.
Strategic Timing In Face Of Regional Tensions
The test followed a few days after there was a fatal terror attack in the Pahalgam area of Jammu and Kashmir that took 26 lives. The Resistance Front (TRF), who is said to be the proxy of Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, has apparently taken responsibility for the attack. The attack has been reported to be the most deadly in the area since the 2019 Pulwama bombing.
Missile Activity on Both Sides
The Indian Navy test also coincided with a maritime notice given by Pakistan, which has declared its intention to test a surface-to-surface missile from the Karachi coast between April 24 and 25. Indian defense authorities are keeping a close eye on events across the border, officials quoted by news agency ANI said.
India’s Diplomatic Counteroffensive
India has initiated a series of robust diplomatic actions against Pakistan in response to the Pahalgam attack:
Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty
Shutting down the Integrated Check Post at Attari
Withdrawal of SAARC visa exemptions
Withdrawal of visas issued to Pakistani nationals
Moreover, Pakistani nationals living in India under the Special Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) have been directed to depart within 48 hours.
The growing military and diplomatic tensions highlight the increased security concerns in the region in the wake of the recent incident of cross-border terrorism.