Lockheed Martin unveiled PAC-3 EDGE, a new interceptor intended to counter hypersonic and other advanced missile threats.

Derived from the combat-proven PATRIOT PAC-3 MSE, the missile is the company’s entry in the U.S. Army’s Future Interceptor program, which is still in competition. The Army’s decision to move Lockheed Martin into the next stage of development reflects confidence in its long experience with Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD). Testing is due to begin in 2027, with deployment targeted for 2031.

At the heart of the design is a new seeker built by Lockheed Martin’s Strigo Product Center, in which the company has invested US$250 million to develop seeker technology offering greater precision and maneuverability against evolving threats. Propulsion comes from a multi-pulse solid rocket motor designed by Northrop Grumman, which allows thrust to be delivered precisely throughout the flight, while upgrades to the control system improve performance at range and altitude. “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,” said Tim Cahill, President of Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control.

According to the company, PAC-3 EDGE will engage air, missile and hypersonic threats at higher altitudes and longer ranges, widening the area covered by the Army’s IAMD network. It joins a family that already includes the lower-cost PAC-3 ACE, the legacy PAC-3 CRI and the PAC-3 MSE, and is meant to complement existing capabilities within a multi-tiered shield protecting critical assets at home and abroad. The interceptor is also designed to integrate with current and future IAMD systems, including the Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS), the M-903 launcher, containerised launchers and HIMARS Flex.

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