KARACHI, Jan 10, 2026: The Pakistan Navy has showcased its growing focus on advanced warfare technologies during a high-intensity naval exercise conducted in the North Arabian Sea, highlighting the force’s transition toward integrated missile and unmanned combat operations.
According to an official statement, the exercise brought together surface combatants, air defence systems, and autonomous platforms to test operational effectiveness in a dynamic maritime environment shaped by evolving security threats.
A key highlight of the drills was the successful live firing of the LY-80(N) Surface-to-Air Missile from a vertical launching system at extended range. The missile precisely intercepted an aerial target, underlining Pakistan Navy’s ability to counter airborne threats and strengthen layered maritime air defence.
The exercise also demonstrated enhanced strike flexibility through the operational use of loitering munitions against surface targets. The successful engagements reflected the Navy’s emphasis on precision-guided weapons and rapid-response capabilities in modern naval warfare.
In a notable development, the Navy conducted open-sea trials of an Unmanned Surface Vessel, assessing its performance in high-speed operations, maneuverability, navigation accuracy, and endurance under challenging sea conditions. Officials described the platform as a force multiplier capable of supporting surveillance, interception, and risk-reduction missions.
Commander Pakistan Fleet, Vice Admiral Abdul Munib, observed the exercise, which evaluated coordination among multiple combat systems and platforms.
Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, praised naval personnel for maintaining high operational standards and reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to defending Pakistan’s maritime frontiers and protecting national interests at sea.
