Islamabad, September 25, 2025 (Khyber Mail): Pakistan has reportedly expressed interest in acquiring China’s newly unveiled LY-1 high-energy laser weapon system, a cutting-edge defensive technology designed to counter drones, helicopters and certain types of cruise missiles.
The system, showcased by Beijing during its Victory Day Parade earlier this month, is aimed at providing warships with a powerful defensive shield. The LY-1, developed by China for shipborne deployment, uses a large-aperture laser coupled with advanced electro-optical and infrared sensors to detect and neutralize incoming aerial threats.
Vice Admiral Ahmed Saeed, President of Pakistan’s National Institute of Maritime Affairs, said on the sidelines of the Xiangshan Forum in Beijing that Islamabad “would love to see some integration” with China in the field of directed-energy weapons, noting that the world’s militaries are shifting toward such advanced technologies.
Defense analysts say if acquired, the LY-1 could significantly enhance Pakistan’s naval air-defense capabilities, offering a faster and more cost-effective response compared to missile systems. Beyond intercepting airborne threats, the system may also disrupt or blind optical sensors and guidance mechanisms of enemy platforms.
However, experts caution that the LY-1’s exact performance details, such as its range, power output and effectiveness in adverse weather, remain undisclosed. Moreover, it is still unclear whether Beijing intends to export the system, given the sensitive nature of high-energy directed weapons.
If Pakistan proceeds with the acquisition, it would mark another step in deepening military-technical cooperation between Islamabad and Beijing, while also signaling Pakistan’s interest in next-generation defense technologies to counter evolving threats.