US sanctions target Pakistan's missile ambitions amidst fears
The United States fears Pakistan's long-range ballistic missiles, reports the Ukrainian portal Defense Express. In response, the US has imposed sanctions on Pakistani military institutions, fearing the development of modern ammunition that could threaten America.
American officials have expressed concerns about Pakistan's missile programme, which could pose a future threat to the US. In response to these concerns, the United States has imposed sanctions on several Pakistani military institutions involved in missile development.
Sanctions and their motives
The decision on the sanctions is controversial, especially in the context of claims that Pakistan is developing missile technology with an increasingly longer range. As Defense Express recalls, Deputy National Security Adviser John Finer stated during a speech on 19th December 2024 that "Pakistan has developed increasingly sophisticated missile technology," and furthermore "If these trend lines continue, Pakistan will have the capability to strike targets well beyond South Asia, including in the United States."
Additionally, the US has imposed sanctions on entities from Belarus and China, allegedly supporting Pakistan's missile programme. There are concerns that the Pakistani Shaheen-III missile, with a range of about 2,736 kilometres, could be a carrier for nuclear weapons.
Development prospects
American experts assess that within a few years, Pakistan may develop long-range missiles. For this purpose, the US has attempted to engage in cooperation for information exchange, but despite efforts, Pakistan has refused.
Pakistan's missile technology relies heavily on Chinese solutions, further complicating the situation. The US is concerned not only about potential Pakistani missiles but also existing Chinese technology.
Defense Express also recalls that in January 2024, Pakistan announced the possession of a hypersonic missile, sparking speculation about its actual existence.
Let us also recall that the mentioned Shaheen-II missile, which can carry a nuclear warhead, has been in service in Pakistan since 2014. This equipment weighs over 23,587 kilograms and has a length of about 17 metres with a diameter of 1.4 metres. The combat warhead's mass in this ammunition is approximately 1,179 kilograms.
