PAC-3 MSE test from remote launcher
Lockheed Martin’s PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) interceptor has successfully intercepted a tactical ballistic missile target in the first-ever MSE test from a remote launcher.
The test was conducted as part of a US Army-led missile defence flight test at the Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands. It demonstrated the expanded defended footprint available by deploying the launcher remotely from the Patriot radar. The test also confirmed the PAC-3 MSE's ability to detect, track and intercept an incoming threat.
The PAC-3 MSE is a high-velocity interceptor that defends against incoming threats, including tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and aircraft. The missile uses hit-to-kill technology, which defeats threats through kinetic energy via body-to-body contact.
In addition to its dual-pulse motor, the upgraded PAC-3 MSE brings larger control fins and an upgraded support system. The enhancements extend the missile's reach and improve performance against evolving missile threats.
Scott Arnold, VP and deputy of Integrated Air and Missile Defense at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, said: ‘PAC-3 continues to be successful against today's evolving threats and it remains the only combat proven hit-to-kill interceptor in the world.
‘Today's global security environment demands reliable solutions. We expect PAC-3 MSE interceptors to continue serving as an integral layer of defence in the protection of armed forces personnel, citizens and infrastructure.’
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Land Warfare
-
![First UK-made British Army Boxer rolled out]()
First UK-made British Army Boxer rolled out
The first batch of 623 Boxer ordered were built in Germany with the majority of the work now done in West Midlands and North-East Wales.
-
![Bidders for the British Army Land Mobility Programme stir as the process begins]()
Bidders for the British Army Land Mobility Programme stir as the process begins
The UK’s Land Mobility Programme (LMP) is seen as vital for both the British Army and local industry as it is worth billions-of-dollars for thousands of vehicles.
-
![South Korea to develop long-range interceptor for Iron Dome by 2028]()
South Korea to develop long-range interceptor for Iron Dome by 2028
Around US$329 million will be spent on the development of the interceptor which will work to protect national and military facilities from the threat of North Korean artillery.
-
![Germany places $342 million for Rheinmetall logistics trucks]()
Germany places $342 million for Rheinmetall logistics trucks
The trucks are being ordered within a framework agreement concluded in July 2024 which covers the delivery of up to 6,500 trucks worth up to €3.5 billion (US$3.6 billion).
-
![Kongsberg Defence Australia to supply control stations to Poland under $12 million deal]()
Kongsberg Defence Australia to supply control stations to Poland under $12 million deal
The Naval Strike Missile (NSM) Coastal Defence System (CDS) command and control (C2) console is derived from the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System air defence console currently in service with the Australian Army,
