Karachi: Pakistan Navy conducted a large-scale combat exercise in the North Arabian Sea, testing advanced missiles, loitering munitions and unmanned vessels as part of a broader effort to strengthen its maritime strike and defense capabilities.
The drill featured the live firing of a LY-80(N) surface-to-air missile from a vertical launch system, which successfully intercepted an aerial target at extended range. Naval officials said the test confirmed the navy’s ability to counter airborne threats far from its fleet, reinforcing the effectiveness of its modern air-defense network.
At the same time, the exercise included the use of loitering munitions against surface targets. The precision-guided systems were able to identify and destroy designated objectives, highlighting their growing role in modern naval warfare, where remotely operated and highly accurate weapons are increasingly preferred over conventional firepower.
The navy also carried out open-sea trials of an unmanned surface vessel, or USV, marking another step toward autonomous maritime operations. The vessel demonstrated high-speed performance, sharp maneuverability and the ability to operate in challenging weather, offering what officials described as a low-risk platform capable of conducting surveillance and tactical missions without exposing crew members to danger.
Vice Admiral Abdul Munib, Commander Pakistan Fleet, observed the exercise as warships and new-generation platforms operated together in realistic combat conditions. Senior officers reviewed how conventional naval assets and unmanned systems could be integrated into a single operational framework.
Following the drills, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf praised the officers and sailors for their professionalism and combat readiness. He said the exercise reflected the navy’s determination to protect Pakistan’s maritime frontiers and secure national interests at sea as naval warfare continues to evolve.
