Lockheed Martin has introduced the PAC-3 Edge, a new interceptor missile designed to counter advanced threats, including hypersonic weapons. This development is part of a broader effort by the United States to enhance its missile defenses and rebuild stockpiles impacted by ongoing conflicts.
The PAC-3 Edge aims to improve the Patriot missile defense system’s capabilities, enabling it to engage challenging targets at greater distances and higher altitudes. According to Reuters, the new interceptor incorporates an upgraded seeker, enhanced flight controls, and a multi-pulse rocket motor.
These enhancements are intended to boost the interceptor’s effectiveness in tracking and engaging sophisticated aerial threats. Lockheed Martin anticipates that the PAC-3 Edge will have a similar cost to its current PAC-3 MSE interceptor. The company is targeting testing for the new weapon in 2027 and deployment in 2031.
The development of the PAC-3 Edge occurs as the U.S. Army seeks to increase production of interceptors due to rising demand. This includes a significant contract awarded to Lockheed Martin to ramp up production of existing PAC-3 interceptors, aiming to raise annual capacity considerably.
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Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
