// UNMANNED SYSTEMS AND NEXT-GEN WARFARE TERM
PAC-3
PAC-3 is an advanced missile defense system that uses 'hit-to-kill' technology to intercept incoming tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and aircraft by directly colliding with them. It serves as a crucial component of the larger Patriot air defense system.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
The PAC-3 (Patriot Advanced Capability-3) is a highly agile, hit-to-kill missile interceptor, developed by Lockheed Martin, primarily deployed as part of the MIM-104 Patriot missile defense system to counter tactical ballistic missiles (TBMs), cruise missiles, and advanced aircraft threats through kinetic energy impact.
SYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Patriot Advanced Capability-3
- Patriot missile
- PAC-3 MSE
- MIM-104F
- hit-to-kill interceptor
- air defense missile
USAGE NOTE
PAC-3 missiles are frequently upgraded, with the latest variant being PAC-3 MSE (Missile Segment Enhancement), offering extended range and altitude for enhanced defense capabilities.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to PAC-3.
The prime contractor and lead developer of the PAC-3 (Patriot Advanced Capability-3) Missile Segment, including the PAC-3 MSE (Missile Segment Enhancement) interceptors, which are critical components of the Patriot air and missile defense system.
As the original prime contractor for the Patriot system, RTX (formerly Raytheon Missiles & Defense) develops and manufactures key components of the Patriot air and missile defense system, including the AN/MPQ-65 radar and command-and-control systems, which integrate with PAC-3 interceptors.
The Program Executive Office Missiles and Space (PEO MS) within the U.S. Army is responsible for managing the Patriot air and missile defense program, including the development, acquisition, and sustainment of the PAC-3 system, guiding its evolution and integration.
The U.S. Missile Defense Agency (MDA) develops, fields, and sustains a layered and integrated ballistic missile defense system. While PAC-3 is an Army program, the MDA's efforts in integrated air and missile defense architecture and technologies often influence or incorporate systems like PAC-3.
Develops advanced C4ISR (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) systems, including the Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS), which is designed to integrate and modernize air and missile defense capabilities, allowing PAC-3 systems to connect with a broader network of sensors and effectors.