Upgraded PAC-3 Downs Target in Intercept Test

The U.S. Army and Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control of Dallas successfully conducted Feb. 17 an intercept test with an upgraded version of the Patriot Advanced Capability (PAC)-3 missile, according to a Feb. 18 Lockheed Martin press release.

This version of the PAC-3 missile, the Missile Segment Enhancement variant, is the first upgrade to a design called the PAC-3 Cost Reduction Initiative missile. The new version features hardware and software enhancements, including a larger solid-rocket motor and larger aerodynamic surfaces to enable an increased performance envelope, the release said.

The PAC-3 successfully intercepted a threat-representative ballistic missile target at White Sands Missile Range, N.M., the release said.