PAC-3 MSE interceptor achieves IOC
The US Army has declared initial operational capability (IOC) for the PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) interceptor, Lockheed Martin announced on 16 August.
The PAC-3 MSE uses hit-to-kill technology to defend against incoming threats such as aircraft, cruise missiles and tactical ballistic missiles. The MSE features larger fins, dual-pulse solid rocket motor and other structural modifications which almost double the PAC-3’s reach along with enhancing its performance against evolving threats.
Scott Arnold, vice president of PAC-3 programs at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, said: ‘PAC-3 MSE reaching IOC is important because it gives our soldiers an operational capability against imminent threats.’
PAC-3 was selected by the US Army to increase the intercept capability of its heritage Patriot system against tactical ballistic missiles. Lockheed Martin received the contract for increasing the range and altitude of the PAC-3 in 2003. The PAC-3 MSE received Milestone C early in 2014, and the company got its first contract in the same year.
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