Pakistan launches cruise missile

ISLAMABAD, Pakistan, Dec. 11 (UPI) -- Pakistan tested a cruise missile Tuesday believed capable of carrying a conventional or nuclear warhead about 438 miles, it was reported.

The Press Trust of India said state-run Pakistan television reported the Babar Hatf-7 missile was launched successfully but did not say where the test took place or provide other details.

President Pervez Musharraf and caretaker Prime Minister Mohammedmian Soomro congratulated those responsible for the successful launch, PTI reported.

The 22-foot-long, 1.5-ton Babar cruise missile can carry either nuclear or conventional warheads weighing up to about 550 pounds. Pakistan is believed to be working on manufacturing a nuclear payload to fit into the Babar missile, PTI said.