The United Kingdom has finalized the sale of three Landing Craft Air Cushion (Light) [LCAC(L)] hovercraft that previously served with the Royal Marines, to be incorporated into the operational capabilities of the Pakistan Navy. The operation was managed by the Export and Sales team of the British agency DE&S (Defence Equipment and Support), which oversees the transfer of surplus defense equipment through government-to-government agreements.
The amphibious vehicles, decommissioned in 2021, underwent a comprehensive refurbishment process carried out by the British company Griffon Marine Support under contract with DE&S. The Southampton-based company will continue to provide in-service technical support for the transferred units, as part of a separate agreement with the Pakistan Navy.
The versatility of these hovercraft—capable of operating over both land and water—makes them an ideal platform for shallow water operations, coastal patrols, humanitarian assistance, and rapid deployments. According to DE&S, these capabilities are a perfect match for Pakistan’s maritime environment.
Commodore Richard Whalley, head of Export and Sales at DE&S, emphasized the importance of the agreement, stating that “this sale continues a long history of excellent defense equipment relations with the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and reaffirms our positive defense ties. By transferring these proven assets, we are supporting the Pakistan Navy’s ability to enhance its coastal and amphibious operations, while contributing to the shared goal of maintaining global security and generating returns for the UK defense budget.”
From Islamabad, a spokesperson for the Pakistan Navy welcomed the bilateral cooperation, stating that “the Pakistan Navy values its defense cooperation with the United Kingdom. This is reflected in joint exercises, training exchanges, acquisitions, and collaborative maritime security efforts. The recent acquisition of hovercraft from the United Kingdom will enhance our capabilities, especially in maritime security operations and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR).”
The official handover ceremony took place in London, attended by senior representatives from DE&S, the UK Ministry of Defence, the High Commission of Pakistan in London, and the Pakistani defense procurement attaché.
With this acquisition, the Pakistan Navy strengthens its fleet with platforms that are already proven, refurbished, and backed by specialized technical support—while also reinforcing its strategic relationship with the United Kingdom. It is worth noting, however, that London is not the country’s only defense supplier, as Beijing has signed multiple arms deals with Islamabad. For instance, for its air force, Pakistan has acquired the Shaanxi KJ-500 aircraft, dedicated to airborne early warning and control, and 40 J-35A stealth fighters. Both announcements were made in June.
*Images for illustrative purposes only
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