Lockheed Martin to supply first PAC-3 MSE missiles
Lockheed Martin has received the first production order of the PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) from the US Army Aviation and Missile Command, for the production and delivery of PAC-3 MSE missiles and Launcher Modifications Kits (LMKs). The contract, worth $611 million, was announced on 28 April.
The PAC-3 MSE increases the altitude and range of the PAC-3 missile, with the addition of more powerful dual-pulse motor for added thrust, along with larger fins and other structural modifications for more agility. The two-pulse solid rocket motor provides increased performance while retaining the same proven hit-to-kill technology that the PAC-3 Missile brings to the Patriot system.
The PAC-3 MSE’s larger fins collapse to allow the missile to fit into the current PAC-3 launcher, and give the interceptor more manoeuvrability against faster and more sophisticated ballistic and cruise missiles. The launcher modification kits enable the Patriot Configuration 3 launcher to control and launch the hit-to-kill PAC-3 Missiles, as well as heritage Patriot missiles.
Scott Arnold, vice president of PAC-3 programs, Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, said: ‘These enhancements are the natural, pre-planned evolution of a system that was first demonstrated 20 years ago. Every current Patriot-using nation is a candidate to upgrade their PAC-3 systems to the PAC-3 MSE.’
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Land Warfare
-
![Analysis: British Army Ajax in service after problematic delivery – but what now?]()
Analysis: British Army Ajax in service after problematic delivery – but what now?
The Ajax has finally rolled into place and achieved what the UK Ministry of Defence describes as Initial Operating Capability. With the production line for UK contracts only going to the end of the decade, what’s next?
-
![Levelling up – how autonomous fire control tackles unmanned lethality head-on]()
Levelling up – how autonomous fire control tackles unmanned lethality head-on
As autonomous weapon systems proliferate, it is now essential to use the same core technologies to counteract and neutralise them.
-
![US Marine Corps force transformation on track, according to update]()
US Marine Corps force transformation on track, according to update
The US Marines Corps’ Force Design 2030 is about restructure, changes to operational concepts, a refresh of equipment and new categories of equipment. The review indicates a high level of success.
-
![BAE Systems Hägglunds’ CV90120 medium tank takes shape]()
BAE Systems Hägglunds’ CV90120 medium tank takes shape
The new vehicle will be based on the CV90 Mk IV chassis and turret, and will be armed with a Rheinmetall 120mm L44A1 low recoil smoothbore gun.
-
![UK government argues strife has little impact on steel supply but imports reign]()
UK government argues strife has little impact on steel supply but imports reign
Speaking in the UK Parliament, Defence Minister Luke Pollard said possible changes in the country’s steelmaking industry will have little impact on defence projects; while much of the steel in British vehicles and ships is imported.
