The Pakistan Navy, during a large-scale exercise conducted in the Northern Arabian Sea, successfully tested the LY-80 (N) air defense missile launched from a vertical launch system, as well as next-generation unmanned maritime platforms, demonstrating its operational readiness.
According to a statement issued on January 10, 2026, by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of the Pakistan Armed Forces, the Navy conducted a comprehensive exercise showcasing both its conventional and unmanned capabilities in line with evolving modern naval warfare requirements.
Long-Range Air Defense with LY-80 (N)
One of the most notable elements of the exercise was the live-fire test of the LY-80 (N) surface-to-air missile (SAM) system, launched from a vertical launch system (VLS). This successful long-range launch reaffirmed the Pakistan Navy’s extended-range capabilities within its modern air defense architecture. ISPR reported that the missile effectively neutralized the designated aerial target with high precision.
Loitering Munitions and Precision Engagement
During the exercise, the Navy tested not only defensive but also offensive capabilities. Using loitering munitions, “successful engagements” against surface targets were carried out, destroying maritime targets with precise strikes. This trial demonstrated the Pakistan Navy’s precision-strike capacity, which is critical in modern battlefields.
A New Phase in Unmanned Maritime Systems
The exercise also included successful open-sea trials of Pakistan’s Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs), highlighting the country’s advancements in autonomous technologies.
Strategic Advantage: ISPR emphasized that USV platforms add a new dimension to naval defense as a low-risk yet highly effective “tactical disruptor.”
Performance: The combination of high-speed capability and operational endurance of the platform was confirmed.
Maneuverability: Precise navigation and extreme maneuvering were demonstrated even under challenging sea and weather conditions.
“Commitment to Maritime Defense”
Observing the exercise on-site, Pakistan Navy Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf praised the personnel’s professionalism and their ability to operate advanced systems. Admiral Ashraf reiterated Pakistan’s determination to maintain maritime defense under all circumstances and to protect national maritime interests.
These tests represent the latest phase in the Navy’s technological transformation, following the recent successful trials of the “Taimoor” and “SMASH” missile systems.
Source:C4Defence / ISPR
