Pakistan Navy Bolsters Anti-Submarine Warfare Capabilities with Advanced “Sea Sultan” Project

(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – The Pakistan Navy is poised to significantly bolster its maritime surveillance and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities with the introduction of its first long-range Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA), an advanced platform derived from the Embraer Lineage 1000 commercial jet.

Scheduled for delivery in 2026, this cutting-edge asset is expected to enhance Pakistan’s ability to monitor and counter potential underwater threats, particularly in the increasingly contested waters of the Indian Ocean.

This development is part of Pakistan’s strategic initiative to modernize its maritime aviation fleet and replace its aging P-3C Orion aircraft.

In 2021, Pakistan signed a contract with Italian defence giant Leonardo and South Africa’s Paramount Group to convert three Embraer Lineage 1000 commercial jets into long-range maritime patrol platforms, a move that aligns with global trends where nations seek cost-effective yet highly capable alternatives to dedicated military aircraft.

Under “Project Sea Sultan,” Paramount Aerospace has been entrusted with Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) responsibilities, ensuring that these aircraft meet the demanding operational requirements of modern naval warfare.

The Sea Sultan aircraft will incorporate a formidable suite of sensors and weapons, including Electronic Support Measures (ESM), Electronic Intelligence (ELINT) capabilities, an advanced electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) system, an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, satellite communications, and defensive countermeasures such as chaff and flares.

To execute its primary ASW mission, the aircraft will be equipped with torpedoes, sonobuoys, and depth charges, enabling it to detect, track, and neutralize adversarial submarines in strategic waters.

Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf emphasized the strategic importance of these aircraft, describing them as a “game-changing enhancement” to Pakistan’s maritime defense posture.

“These aircraft are currently undergoing modifications in South Africa and are expected to be delivered to Pakistan by 2026, with subsequent deliveries following in a phased approach as part of our comprehensive naval aviation modernization program,” he stated.

“With its cutting-edge technology, the Sea Sultan will operate alongside existing platforms such as the older P-3C Orion and ATR 72, offering superior range, endurance, anti-submarine warfare capabilities, and the ability to counter surface combatants.”

The Pakistan Navy has indicated its long-term vision to replace its P-3C Orion fleet entirely, aiming for a total of 10 modified commercial aircraft repurposed for advanced maritime surveillance and warfare roles.

The first Embraer Lineage 1000 aircraft was delivered to the Pakistan Navy in September 2021 at Pakistan Naval Station Mehran in Karachi.

However, this initial unit had yet to undergo modification and was instead utilized for crew training and operational familiarization.

Several South African aerospace firms are collaborating on Project Sea Sultan, contributing specialized expertise to the conversion process.

Aerospace engineering company Aerosud was contracted to supply two sets of custom aircraft interiors.

Following an extensive 18-month design phase, Aerosud has commenced the production of mission-specific components, including galley units, observer workstations, partition walls, and secure storage compartments, with completion targeted for mid-2025.

“This contract underscores Aerosud’s technological expertise and strategic approach to collaboration and execution. By working closely with Paramount Aerospace Systems, Aerosud continues to expand its footprint in the global aerospace sector, cementing its reputation as a trusted supplier,” the company stated.

Meanwhile, the maritime security landscape in the region continues to evolve, with the Indian Navy undertaking its own ambitious modernization program.

As of January 2025, India operates a fleet of 16 submarines, including one nuclear-powered vessel and 15 conventionally powered units.

India is also in the process of constructing two nuclear-powered attack submarines, part of its broader effort to enhance its naval deterrence.

Additionally, New Delhi has outlined plans to acquire six additional conventional submarines equipped with Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology, a capability that will significantly extend their underwater endurance and combat effectiveness.

Given the growing strategic competition in the Indian Ocean, the induction of the Sea Sultan aircraft is expected to serve as a force multiplier for the Pakistan Navy, reinforcing its ability to safeguard critical sea lanes, conduct extended maritime patrols, and enhance its deterrence against submarine threats in an increasingly complex security environment.

— DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA