FROM THE BOW TO THE BALLISTIC MISSILE – A REFLECTION ON THE PROPHETRIC WISDOM OF “AR-RAMY”
(PAKISTAN ARMED FORCES ON THE FOOTSTEPS OF THE SUNNAH OF THE PROPHET)
Published by: M. Waseem
Publishing date: 14 April 2026
More than fourteen centuries ago in the city of Medina, the Messenger of Allah ﷺ addressed his companions while explaining a verse of the Qur’an “And prepare against them whatever you are able of power” (Qur’an 8:60). While elaborating on the meaning of this command, the Prophet ﷺ clarified what was meant by power. He stated “Indeed, strength is in shooting (ar-ramy). Indeed, strength is in shooting. Indeed, strength is in shooting.” (Sahih Muslim). Through this emphasis, the Prophet ﷺ highlighted the strategic importance of ranged capability in warfare.
At that time, the companions understood this statement within the context of their own era. They lived in an age when warriors fought with swords, rode horses, and often faced their enemies in direct combat. Yet the Prophet ﷺ drew attention to a different dimension of military strength the ability to strike the enemy from a distance. An archer capable of hitting his target from a far possessed a strategic advantage over a swordsman who relied solely on close combat.
Over the centuries, the tools of warfare have evolved dramatically, yet the fundamental principle emphasized by the Prophet ﷺ has remained constant. The bow eventually gave way to the cannon, the cannon evolved into the rocket, and the rocket developed into the modern ballistic missile. Although technology has changed, the underlying concept of launching projectiles toward the enemy has continued to shape military power throughout history. Today, this principle forms the foundation of modern strategic and defense capabilities.
Modern warfare clearly illustrates how this principle continues to apply. Recent conflicts, such as those between Iran and Israel, demonstrate how warfare has transformed in the modern age. Instead of armies meeting directly on traditional battlefields, missiles can now travel hundreds or even thousands of kilometers within minutes. Drones circle high above cities, and precision strikes are launched from far beyond the visible horizon. The battlefield is no longer confined to land or sea; it now extends into airspace, satellite systems, and cyber networks. Despite these technological changes, the central principle remains the same strength lies in the ability to project force over distance.
Classical scholars also emphasized the significance of this prophetic guidance. When the Prophet ﷺ repeated the phrase “Indeed, strength is in shooting” three times, scholars such as Imam al-Nawawi explained that the repetition highlighted the importance of mastering ranged combat skills. The specific instruments of warfare may evolve with time, but the strategic concept behind them remains unchanged. From arrows to rockets and from slings to satellites, military effectiveness continues to depend largely on the capacity to project power from afar.
In the contemporary era, Pakistan has strived to uphold this principle of preparedness and strength. Despite facing numerous challenges, the country has developed a credible defense capability rooted in deterrence and technological advancement. Pakistan has not only achieved nuclear capability but has also developed sophisticated missile systems such as the Shaheen and Fatah series, alongside a capable and modern air force. These capabilities serve as a means of deterrence and play a vital role in ensuring the protection, sovereignty, and stability of the nation.
The effectiveness and precision of Pakistan’s defense systems have been demonstrated in various operational contexts, including initiatives and exercises such as Marke-e-Haq and Ghazab lil Haq. These efforts reinforce Pakistan’s position as a responsible state that prioritizes security, preparedness, and peace through strength.In essence, the archer standing on the desert plains of Medina and the modern missile operator serving in Pakistan’s Armed Forces are separated by centuries of technological advancement. However, they represent the same enduring strategic reality; power belongs to those who master the art “ramy”; projecting force accurately and effectively from a distance.