Pakistan Navy Conducts Air Defense Interception Test
The Pakistan Navy has conducted a live fire air defense interception test at sea, demonstrating the ability of a frontline warship to engage and destroy an aerial target using a ship launched missile system.
According to an official Pakistan Navy statement, the test was carried out from a Tughril class guided missile and air defense frigate. The warship fired the LY 80 naval surface to air missile from its vertical launch system to intercept a low flying and low observable mobile air target.
Vertical Launch Missile Fired at Sea
The missile was launched using a hot launch method from a vertical cell, a key capability for modern naval air defense. The interception validated the combat readiness of the frigate and the effectiveness of its integrated sensors, command system, and missile engagement sequence.
The LY 80 naval air defense system is the maritime variant of the Chinese HQ 16 family and is designed to counter aircraft, helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles, and cruise missiles. It provides medium range area defense for surface combatants and task groups.
Boost to Naval Modernization Efforts
The Tughril class frigates form the backbone of Pakistan Navy surface fleet modernization. Equipped with modern radars, electronic warfare suites, and vertical launch missiles, the class is intended to strengthen maritime security and fleet air defense in the North Arabian Sea.
Pakistan Navy stated that the successful firing reflects a high level of crew proficiency and operational preparedness. The service regularly conducts live fire drills to validate weapon systems under realistic operational conditions.
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