ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Navy has once again demonstrated its evolvingoperational prowess through a meticulously planned exercise in the NorthArabian Sea, integrating both conventional firepower and cutting-edgeunmanned systems. This multifaceted display not only underscored theforce’s combat preparedness but also highlighted its adaptation to modernnaval warfare dynamics, where air defence, precision strikes, andautonomous platforms play pivotal roles in safeguarding maritime interests.The exercise, conducted amid recent regional security developments,successfully validated several advanced capabilities that enhancePakistan’s seaward defence posture.
A key highlight of the exercise was the live firing of the LY-80(N)Surface-to-Air Missile from a Vertical Launching System at extended range.This Chinese-origin system, integrated aboard modern Pakistan Navyplatforms such as the Tughril-class frigates, successfully engaged andneutralized a high-speed aerial target. With an interception range reportedbetween 40 and 70 kilometres depending on the variant, and the ability tooperate in all-weather conditions against manoeuvring threats, the LY-80(N)bolsters layered air defence. Such successful engagements reaffirm thenavy’s capacity to counter aerial incursions effectively, a criticalrequirement in contested maritime environments.
Building suspense around emerging asymmetric threats, the exerciseprogressed to showcase precision surface strike capabilities through thedeployment of Loitering Munition systems. These intelligent munitions,capable of persistent surveillance before committing to attack,successfully located and destroyed designated surface targets with highaccuracy. Pakistan’s growing indigenous expertise in loitering munitions,as evidenced by developments like the Blaze series unveiled in recentdefence exhibitions, allows for low-cost, high-impact operations thatminimize risk to personnel while maximizing effectiveness against enemyassets.
Further elevating the demonstration, successful open-sea trials of anUnmanned Surface Vessel marked a significant milestone in Pakistan’spursuit of autonomous naval technology. The USV exhibited exceptionalhigh-speed performance, extreme maneuverability, precision navigation, andresilience in adverse weather conditions. Offering stealth characteristicsakin to a tactical interceptor, this platform provides a low-risk solutionfor intelligence gathering, surveillance, and potential strike missions.Recent indigenous developments, including platforms revealed by local firmsat maritime expos, indicate accelerating progress toward incorporatingunmanned systems across surface, sub-surface, and aerial domains.
The exercise was personally witnessed by the Commander Pakistan Fleet, whoobserved the seamless integration of these advanced systems in real-timeoperational scenarios. His presence underscored the high-level priorityaccorded to such drills, which simulate realistic threats and validateinteroperability between manned and unmanned assets. The professionalexecution reflected months of rigorous training and technical refinement byofficers and sailors.
In his commendation, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Chief of the Naval Staff,praised the participating personnel for their unwavering professionalismand operational competence. He emphasized that these achievements alignwith the Pakistan Navy’s steadfast resolve to ensure the seaward defence ofthe country and protect national maritime interests under allcircumstances. The CNS’s remarks highlight the strategic importance ofcontinuous modernization in maintaining deterrence amid evolving regionalchallenges.
This exercise arrives at a time when global naval forces increasinglyemphasize unmanned and autonomous technologies to address multi-domainthreats. Pakistan’s focus on integrating systems like the LY-80(N),loitering munitions, and USVs positions it to enhance deterrence whilereducing human exposure to risk. Data from recent defence developmentssuggest that such capabilities contribute to broader maritime security,particularly in protecting vital sea lines of communication and exclusiveeconomic zones.
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The successful outcomes also reflect collaborative efforts withinternational partners, notably in acquiring and indigenizing advancedweaponry. As Pakistan continues to invest in research and development,future exercises are likely to incorporate even more sophisticated unmannedswarms and networked operations. This progression signals a transformativephase in the navy’s evolution toward a more agile and technology-drivenforce.
Overall, the North Arabian Sea exercise serves as a potent reminder ofPakistan Navy’s commitment to readiness and innovation. By mastering theseadvanced domains, the force not only safeguards territorial waters but alsocontributes to regional stability through demonstrated capability anddeterrence.
Source: https://dunyanews.tv/en/Pakistan/928803
Tags: Pakistan Navy, LY-80N, Loitering Munition, Unmanned Surface Vessel,North Arabian Sea
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