Also note that, in a landmark demonstration of air defence supremacy, Pakistan’s HQ-9P system accomplished South Asia’s first-ever SAM-on-SAM engagement by intercepting and destroying 2–3 incoming S-400 interceptor missiles, including the advanced 40N6 and 48N6E2 variants, over the skies of Lahore. This rare and complex feat involved neutralizing missiles specifically designed to intercept high-speed aerial targets, turning the tables in an arena traditionally dominated by offensive missile defence systems. The engagement was enabled by the HQ-9P’s HT-233 radar, which successfully detected, tracked, and guided interceptors against targets travelling at Mach 6–7, showcasing exceptional sensor precision and real-time fire-control integration.

RUSI report of June 2025, described the event as a “paradigm shift”

— one that transforms air defence from a passive shield into an active, strategic tool capable of contesting the skies against even the most advanced missile defence systems.

@WheelsOfDefensePK