Lockheed Martin Develops New PAC-3 Edge Interceptor to Counter Hypersonic Targets

The American company Lockheed Martin has developed a new PAC-3 Edge interceptor missile for the Patriot air defense system, designed to counter hypersonic and advanced missile threats.

This was announced on the company’s website on October 9.

The PAC-3 Edge was developed as part of the U.S. Army’s Future Interceptor program, based on combat-proven technologies from the PAC-3 MSE interceptor, as well as new solutions designed to improve target interception effectiveness.

The new interceptor features an upgraded seeker head, a multi-pulse solid-propellant rocket motor manufactured by Northrop Grumman, and an enhanced guidance system.

According to the developer, these solutions are designed to provide better interception performance at long ranges and high altitudes.

“The PAC-3 Edge interceptor utilizes combat-proven PAC-3 MSE technology, delivering even greater maneuverability, power, and speed to ensure that the Army’s layered defense architecture remains the most advanced in the world,” said Tim Cahill, president of the missile systems division Lockheed Martin.

One of the key elements of the PAC-3 Edge will be a new homing seeker currently under development at Lockheed Martin’s Strigo Product Center.

The company notes that it has invested $250 million in this center to implement new homing technologies designed to improve the accuracy and maneuverability of the interceptors.

Testing of the PAC-3 Edge is scheduled to begin in 2027. The interceptor is expected to be ready for deployment by 2031.

The new interceptor missile is designed to integrate with the U.S. Army’s existing and future integrated air and missile defense systems, including the IBCS combat command system, the M903 launcher, containerized launchers, and HIMARS Flex.

As a reminder, in July, Lockheed Martin unveiled the low-cost PAC-3 ACE interceptor missile for the Patriot air defense system. It features simplified components, including the engine and homing seeker.

In August, a Lockheed Martin executive stated that the missile’s first flight test would take place in 18 months, and production would begin in ‘a few years.’