PAC-3E uses Aegis to intercept live target
The missile was fired from an MK-70 containerised launch platform. (Photo: Lockheed Martin)
The MIM-104F Phased Array Tracking to Intercept of Target (Patriot) Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) is a long-range, medium- to high-altitude, all-weather air defence missile designed to counter tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and advanced aircraft.
Lockheed Martin has successfully fired a PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) interceptor using the Aegis system and intercepted a cruise missile target in flight for the first time.
The test was conducted in partnership with multiple Department of Defense services and components and took place from White Sands Missile Range. The interceptor was fired from an MK-70 containerized launch platform and utilised the Virtualized Aegis Weapon System to intercept the live target.
The system was designed to deliver an Integrated Air and Missile Defense capability with growing capacity to defend against advanced, manoeuvrable threats.
PAC-3 missiles have been designed to defend against advanced threats including tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, hypersonic missiles and aircraft.
PAC-3 MSE has been in service with 13 countries, with large orders coming from the UAE and Germany in 2019. The UAE ordered 452 units for for an estimated cost of US$2.7 billion and Germany ordered 50 PAC-3 MSE with support for an estimated cost of $401 million.
Some German Patriot system have been pushed into service with Ukraine as it tries to push back Russian forces. In March 2024, it was announced that Germany would receive additional Patriot air and missile defence systems under a $1.2 billion contract awarded to Raytheon.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Land Warfare
-
![Germany takes first Boxer air defence vehicle and prepares for evaluation trials]()
Germany takes first Boxer air defence vehicle and prepares for evaluation trials
The Skyranger air defence system for Germany is built around the Boxer 8x8, a platform which is in service with, or ordered by, six countries.
-
![Oshkosh awarded $215 million in truck contracts]()
Oshkosh awarded $215 million in truck contracts
Oshkosh Defence has sold more than 2,000 Family of Medium Truck Vehicles (FMTV) A2 trucks and completed air drops of the M1093A2 (A2) FMTV trucks from Boeing C-17 heavy lift and Lockheed Martin C-130 tactical lift aircraft in 2024.
-
![GDLS plans to deliver prototype armed Advanced Reconnaissance Vehicle in 2025]()
GDLS plans to deliver prototype armed Advanced Reconnaissance Vehicle in 2025
General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS) is building the Advanced Reconnaissance Vehicle (ARV) Command, Control, Communications, Computers/Uncrewed Aerial Systems (C4/UAS) for the US Marine Corps (USMC). Approximately 500 ARV 30mm autocannon (ARV-30) are expected to be procured by the USMC.
-
![Future of the US Army’s IVAS programme remains unknown]()
Future of the US Army’s IVAS programme remains unknown
Despite recently releasing an Request for Information (RfI) under the IVAS programme, it remains unclear if the US Army will recompete the initiative.
-
![Italy aims for $26 billion vehicle investment and prepares for cyber defence]()
Italy aims for $26 billion vehicle investment and prepares for cyber defence
Italy’s Armoured Infantry Combat System (AICS) system began seven years ago in an effort to replace older vehicles such as M113s and the force is also looking to replace its C1 Ariete Main Battle Tanks (MBTs).
