Interceptor Achieves New Milestone in Lockheed Martin’s PAC-3 MSE Hit-to-Kill Technology
PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) Interceptor Test Success
The PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) interceptor has successfully intercepted an Air-Breathing Threat (ABT) during a test at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico. This achievement showcases the advanced capabilities of this missile system.
This test marks a significant milestone, as it is the farthest distance at which a PAC-3 MSE missile has intercepted an ABT, which can include fixed-wing aircraft or cruise missiles. The U.S. Army led this missile defense flight test to demonstrate the unique Hit-to-Kill capability of the PAC-3 family of missiles, providing robust defense through body-to-body contact.
The test reaffirmed the PAC-3 MSE’s ability to accurately detect, track, and intercept incoming ABTs or missiles. Observers included representatives from the U.S. Army and a current customer involved in Foreign Military Sales of the PAC-3 MSE.
“PAC-3 MSE continues to excel against today’s evolving threats. This latest test validates its effectiveness at extended distances,” stated Jay Pitman, Vice President of PAC-3 Programs at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. “In today’s global security landscape, reliable solutions are essential. We anticipate PAC-3 Hit-to-Kill interceptors to remain a crucial component in integrated, layered defense systems.”
The PAC-3 CRI and MSE interceptors are high-velocity systems designed to counter various threats, including tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and aircraft. To date, twelve nations have adopted the PAC-3 missile defense interceptor, including the U.S., Germany, Kuwait, Japan, Qatar, Republic of Korea, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Taiwan, Romania, Poland, the Netherlands, and the United Arab Emirates.
As a leading entity in systems integration and the development of air and missile defense technologies, Lockheed Martin’s expertise encompasses numerous areas. This includes missile design and production, infrared seekers, command and control/battle management systems, communications, precision pointing, tracking optics, radar and signal processing, and creating threat-representative targets for missile defense evaluations.
