ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s ground-based air defense capabilities received asignificant boost as the Army’s HQ-16 surface-to-air missile systemsuccessfully intercepted and destroyed an aerial target during a recenttraining exercise. The demonstration, highlighted through official channelsand social media visuals, underscores the operational maturity of theChinese-origin system integrated into Pakistan’s layered defensearchitecture. This exercise comes amid ongoing efforts to modernize airdefense assets following regional security developments.
The HQ-16, known internationally as the LY-80 in its export configuration,represents a medium-range surface-to-air missile platform developed byChina’s Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation. With a reportedengagement range exceeding 40 kilometers in its baseline variant andenhanced versions reaching up to 160 kilometers, the system employssemi-active radar homing guidance combined with vertical launch technologyfor rapid reaction times. Pakistan initially acquired several batteriesstarting around 2014-2015, with subsequent procurements expanding itsinventory to protect vital installations and field formations againstaerial threats.
In the latest drill, the HQ-16 battery tracked a high-speed aerial targetsimulating incoming threats such as drones or low-flying aircraft. Themissile launched precisely, achieved lock-on, and neutralized the objectivewith confirmed accuracy. Such live-fire validations are essential forcertifying crew proficiency, system reliability, and integration withbroader command-and-control networks. Defense analysts note that theseexercises help maintain high readiness levels without escalating to actualcombat scenarios.
Pakistan’s emphasis on the HQ-16 aligns with its strategic priority tocounter evolving aerial challenges in a contested regional environment. Thesystem forms part of a multi-layered defense encompassing short-rangesystems like FM-90 and longer-range platforms such as the HQ-9 series.Recent acquisitions, including additional HQ-16 FE batteries with extended160-kilometer range, reflect lessons drawn from past operationalassessments aimed at enhancing denial capabilities against potentialintrusions.
The successful engagement also highlights deepening military-technicalcooperation between Pakistan and China. Beijing has supplied not only themissiles but also associated radars, command vehicles, and trainingsupport. This partnership extends to naval variants, as evidenced by thePakistan Navy’s LY-80(N) test-firings from Type 054A/P frigates in earlyJanuary 2026, demonstrating cross-domain consistency in air defensedoctrine.
Experts observe that routine training exercises like this one serve dualpurposes: operational validation and strategic signaling. By publiclysharing footage of precise intercepts, the Pakistan Army conveys confidencein its defensive posture while deterring potential adversaries. The drill’stiming coincides with broader force modernization, including unmannedsystems integration and precision munitions development.
The HQ-16’s mobility stands out as a key advantage. Mounted on truck-basedlaunchers, batteries can relocate quickly after firing, reducingvulnerability to counter-battery or suppression of enemy air defensesoperations. This feature proves particularly valuable in dynamicbattlefield conditions where static defenses face rapid neutralizationrisks.
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Furthermore, the system’s vertical cold-launch mechanism minimizes launchsignature and allows salvo firing for saturation defense. Combined withadvanced phased-array radars for target acquisition and tracking, itprovides robust performance against maneuvering threats, including thoseemploying electronic countermeasures.
Pakistan continues to invest in indigenous enhancements and joint venturesto reduce dependency on imports. Local defense industries contributethrough maintenance, upgrades, and simulation training, fosteringself-reliance in critical domains. Such efforts complement foreignacquisitions and ensure sustained operational effectiveness.
The exercise reaffirms the Pakistan Army’s commitment to maintainingcredible deterrence through continuous training and technologicaladaptation. As regional dynamics evolve, air defense systems like the HQ-16play a pivotal role in safeguarding sovereignty and national securityinterests.
Source:https://www.armyrecognition.com/news/navy-news/2026/pakistan-navy-successfully-fires-ly-80n-air-defense-missile-from-type-054a-p-frigate
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