ISLAMABAD: A viral claim circulating on social media suggests that Pakistan is ready to unveil a missile named Taimur with a range of 11,500 kilometres, allegedly capable of striking targets in the United States and Israel.
This claim is simply false, with no credible source of information.
The Taimur missile, developed by Pakistan, is an air-launched cruise missile (ALCM) with a range of 290 kilometres.
Developed by Pakistan’s state-owned Global Industrial & Defence Solutions (GIDS) the Taimur air-launched cruise missile (ALCM) was first unveiled at the 2022 International Defence Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS 2022).
In July 2023, GIDS showcased a range of air-launched weapons at the 16th International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF) in Istanbul.
Models of the Taimur air-launched cruise missile (ALCM) and FAAZ air-to-air missiles (AAM) were displayed for the first time at the IDEF.
The missile is designed for precision strikes against surface targets, not for intercontinental attacks. The claim about an 11,500 km range is factually incorrect and misleading.
The development of the Taimur is part of Pakistan’s effort to enhance its precision-strike capabilities.
The missile features advanced guidance systems, including inertial navigation and Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), and incorporates terrain-hugging and sea-skimming flight capabilities for low detectability.
It is equipped with an imaging infrared (IIR) seeker to enable high-accuracy terminal guidance.
The system is specifically built for stand-off engagements, allowing it to strike both stationary and moving targets at a safe distance of up to 290 km.
No credible source, defence agency, or official has confirmed the existence of any Pakistani missile with the claimed 11,500 km range.
Pakistan’s missile development has so far focused on regional deterrence and tactical precision, not long-range intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) capabilities.
The social media posts claiming that Pakistan is preparing to launch a Taimur missile capable of reaching the US and Israel are entirely false.
The Taimur missile is a short-range, air-launched cruise missile with a maximum range of 290 km.
