New data link ties Patriot missile into Integrated Battle Command System
The Patriot was used with a new combination of battle command software and data links to successfully engage cruise missile targets. (Image: Lockheed Martin)
During two separate tests at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, Northrop Grumman's Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS) was integrated with new networked sensor and effector combinations.
The first live target engagement involved three Raytheon AN/MPQ-64 Sentinel radars tracking a cruise missile target across the range.
IBCS then engaged this target using the Lockheed Martin Remote Interceptor Guidance (RIG-360) prototype as uplink to a Patriot PAC-3 interceptor missile. This followed internal R&D work at Northrop Grumman’s to integrate RIG-360 with IBCS.
The RIG-360 successfully communicated with the in-flight PAC-3 to test its data link capabilities. RIG-360 enables a 360-degree PAC-3 engagement capability utilising target data from various sensors.
The success of this test removes the dependency of the Patriot radar in IBCS architecture to provide the communication link to and from the interceptor, according to Northrop Grumman.
During the second live test, a ground-launched cruise missile surrogate was detected, tracked, engaged and destroyed using IBCS. Again using a Patriot Interceptor, IBCS created a fire quality track and common operating picture.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Land Warfare
-
First locally built KF41 Lynx IFV handed over to Hungary
The KF41 procurement is part of Hungary’s Zrínyi 2026 development plan and is one of several efforts to procure modern, NATO-standard platforms that will supersede legacy equipment received from the Soviet Union by 2026.
-
Elbit Systems looks to enhance automation for Israeli artillery systems
Automation efforts on the Roem and Sigma howitzers will maintain a ‘man in a loop’ configuration as the Israeli company focuses on the export market.
-
Raytheon notes CUAS laser success and pushes for faster air defence manufacture
Raytheon’s Patriot air defence system has been in high demand with orders and commitment coming in from Germany, Romania and Spain.
-
BAE Tridon MK2 fitted with Chess Dynamics fire control system
The collaboration between the defence giant and the gunfire control specialist will help deliver a modular anti-drone solution.