On June 26, 2025, at the White Sands Missile Range (WSMR), the U.S. Army and Lockheed Martin conducted a critical flight test mission, showcasing the evolving capability of PAC-3 MSE within the PATRIOT system.
During the flight test, PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) interceptors engaged an Air Breathing Threats (ABTs). The missions used software updates and new seeker algorithm designs for the PAC-3 MSE. These enhanced capabilities enable the PATRIOT system to effectively counter emerging threats in contested environments.
“We’re continuously evolving PAC-3 to address the increasingly complex threat landscape,” said Brian Kubik, Vice President of PAC-3 Programs. “Recent global events highlight the vital role PAC-3 plays in delivering integrated air and missile defense to protect lives, infrastructure and strategic assets. As we address the growing international demand for PAC-3’s proven capabilities,this flight test reinforces our commitment to delivering cutting-edge technology that enhances the system’s ability to detect, track, and engage advanced threats.”
PAC-3 MSE is combat proven against advanced threats including hypersonics, tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and air breathing threats. PAC-3 missiles defend against incoming threats through direct body-to-body contact delivering exponentially more kinetic energy on the target than can be achieved with blast fragmentation mechanisms.
