Lockheed Martin has partnered with Sener for the development and production of Patriot Advanced Capability – 3 (PAC-3) Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) actuators.
The agreement allows the Spanish engineering and technology firm to design, develop, and qualify the crucial PAC-3 MSE component in Spain for global customers.
Initial design work has already begun to meet a challenging schedule.
“We celebrate this agreement with Lockheed Martin, which reinforces Sener’s role as an international Centre of Excellence for the design and production of Control and Actuation Systems,” General Director of Defence at Sener Rafael Orbe said.
“Furthermore, this partnership is a great opportunity to strengthen the value chain of the Spanish industry as a key partner in the global supply chain in a critical area such as advanced interception systems.”
Spain’s Patriot Program
Spain became the 16th partner nation of the Patriot in June with a $2.8-billion purchase.
The latest agreement reinforces Sener’s commitment to the Spanish Patriot program, the Biscay-based firm stated.
The PAC-3 MSE is the latest version of the Patriot missile, featuring greater speed and maneuverability compared to its predecessors.
It enhances the Patriot system’s ability to defend against tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, advanced threats, and aircraft.
“Our partnership with Sener will provide Spain with critical security assets and boost its integrated air and missile defence system capabilities against ever-evolving threats,” vice president of PAC-3 Programs, Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control Brian Kubik said.
“We look forward to collaborating with the Spanish industry and strengthening our existing relationships.”
Production Ramp-Up
Another Spanish firm, Grupo Oesia, has also been tapped by Lockheed to manufacture PAC-3 MSE electronic cables and harnesses for the global supply chain.
The agreements support Lockheed’s effort to ramp up the Patriot’s production 20 percent next year in response to rising global demand.
A total of 500 systems were produced in 2024, with a goal to increase it to 650.