Pakistan conducted its first successful underground nuclear test in the Kharan Desert, showcasing a plutonium device with a yield of approximately 20 kilotons. This event took place shortly after India's nuclear tests, which were conducted earlier in May, escalating tensions between the two neighboring countries. The underground testing was a clear demonstration of Pakistan's determination to establish itself as a nuclear power and to secure its national interests amid a volatile regional environment. The choice of an underground facility was aimed at alleviating concerns about fallout and environmental impact, as well as signaling a commitment to responsible nuclear testing practices.

The test was significant not only for Pakistan but also for the international community, as it threw light on the evolving security landscape in South Asia. Following the tests by India and then Pakistan, nuclear capability in the region was firmly established, leading to a shift in how both domestic and international actors approached issues of regional security. The Kharan Desert, a sparsely populated area, served as a strategic location for such tests, allowing for greater secrecy and less risk to civilian populations.

This pivotal moment in Pakistan's defense strategy highlighted its resolve in the face of perceived threats, particularly from India. The response from other countries was immediate, with a mix of condemnation and forced reconsideration of nuclear non-proliferation policies. This series of events marked the beginning of a new era in the strategic arms dynamic in South Asia, which continues to influence geopolitics to this day, as both nations have continued to develop their nuclear arsenals ever since.