Lockheed’s PAC-3 CRI in White Sands testing

Lockheed Martin’s PAC-3 Cost Reduction Initiative (CRI) interceptor has successfully intercepted two tactical ballistic missile targets in a test at White Sands Missile Range, the company announced on 6 March.

The PAC-3 CRI intercepts support the US Army’s Field Surveillance Program, ensuring the reliability and readiness of fielded PAC-3 missiles. The PAC-3 CRI and Missile Segment Enhancement are high-velocity interceptors that defend against incoming threats including tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and aircraft.

The tests demonstrated the capability of the PAC-3 family of missiles and reconfirmed PAC-3 CRI’s ability to detect, track and intercept incoming missiles while meeting fielded reliability requirements.

Eleven nations have procured the PAC-3 missile defence interceptor including the US, Germany, Kuwait, Japan, Qatar, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Taiwan, Romania, the Netherlands and the United Arab Emirates.

Jay Pitman, vice president of PAC-3 programs 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 interceptors to continue serving as an essential element in integrated, layered defence systems.