When did Pakistan become a nuclear state?

Pakistan became a nuclear state in 1998. This significant event occurred on May 28, when Pakistan conducted its first successful nuclear tests in response to India's nuclear tests earlier that month. The tests, named Chagai-I, marked a pivotal moment in South Asia's geopolitical landscape, establishing Pakistan as the seventh nation in the world to possess nuclear weapons and the first in the Muslim world.

The development of nuclear capabilities in Pakistan can be traced back to its national security concerns, particularly regarding India, which had already conducted its own nuclear tests in 1974. In the years leading up to 1998, Pakistan invested heavily in its nuclear program as a deterrent against perceived threats from its neighbor. The successful tests solidified Pakistan’s stance as a key player in regional security dynamics and shifted the balance of power in South Asia.

Following the tests, Pakistan faced international sanctions and condemnation, but it also garnered a sense of national pride and unity. The nuclear capability was seen as essential for safeguarding Pakistan's sovereignty and territorial integrity. This historical milestone not only redefined Pakistan’s defense policy but also had lasting implications on its foreign relations, particularly with the United States and other global powers. In summary, 1998 stands as a crucial year when Pakistan became nuclear, fundamentally altering its strategic posture in the region.