Lockheed Martin has unveiled a next-generation interceptor designed to counter hypersonic and advanced missile threats, drawing on its combat-proven PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) technology.
Called PAC-3 Edge, the Patriot interceptor is being developed for the US Army’s Future Interceptor program. Tim Cahill, president of Lockheed Martin’s Missiles and Fire Control business, reportedly told Breaking Defense that it will engage targets at greater ranges and altitudes.
Cahill said Lockheed Martin is competing against another company for the program but did not identify its rival.
Testing is targeted for 2027, with potential deployment in 2031, according to Lockheed Martin.
“Lockheed Martin’s PAC-3 Edge interceptor leverages the combat-proven PAC-3 MSE, delivering even greater maneuverability, power and velocity to ensure the Army’s layered defensive architecture remains the most advanced in the world,” Cahill said.
PAC-3 Edge
PAC-3 Edge is intended to expand the US Army’s Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD) coverage against aerial, missile, and hypersonic threats. It builds on the PAC-3 missile family and is designed to integrate with existing and future IAMD capabilities, including the Integrated Battle Command System, M903 launcher, containerized launchers, and HIMARS Flex.
The interceptor will feature a newly developed in-house seeker and a three-pulse solid rocket motor designed by Northrop Grumman. The motor will provide precision thrust throughout flight, while upgraded controls are intended to improve performance at longer ranges and higher altitudes.
Lockheed Martin has invested $250 million in its Strigo Product Center and plans to invest another $800 million in seeker technology to improve precision and maneuverability against evolving threats.
PAC-3 Edge will be built at Lockheed Martin’s facility in Camden, Arkansas. The company is constructing a new automated MSE production plant as part of plans to triple interceptor output over seven years. Once production shifts to the new facility, the existing production line will be upgraded to manufacture PAC-3 Edge.