// UNMANNED SYSTEMS AND NEXT-GEN WARFARE TERM
Patriot
The Patriot is a mobile, long-range air defense system used by the U.S. Army and allied nations to shoot down enemy aircraft, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles. It serves as a critical component of layered air and missile defense.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
The MIM-104 Patriot, developed by Raytheon, is a long-range, all-altitude, all-weather surface-to-air missile (SAM) system used for theater air and missile defense (AMD). It employs advanced phased-array radar (AN/MPQ-53/65) and interceptors like the PAC-2 and PAC-3 to engage and destroy tactical ballistic missiles (TBMs), cruise missiles, and advanced aircraft.
BACKGROUND
The MIM-104 Patriot is a mobile interceptor missile surface-to-air missile (SAM) system, the primary such system used by the United States Army and several allied states. It is manufactured by the U.S. defense contractor Raytheon and derives its name from the radar component of the weapon system. The AN/MPQ-53 at the heart of the system is known as the "Phased Array Tracking Radar to Intercept on Target", which is a backronym for "Patriot". In 1984, the Patriot system began to replace the Nike Hercules system as the U.S. Army's primary high to medium air defense (HIMAD) system and the MIM-23 Hawk system as the U.S. Army's medium tactical air defense system. In addition to defending against aircraft, Patriot is the U.S. Army's primary terminal-phase anti-ballistic missile (ABM) system. As of 2016, the system is expected to stay fielded until at least 2040.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- MIM-104
- Patriot Missile System
- PAC-2
- PAC-3
- Surface-to-Air Missile System
- Air Defense Artillery (ADA)
- Terminal Defense System
USAGE NOTE
The term 'Patriot' typically refers to the entire system—including radar, launchers, and command station—not just the individual missile.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to Patriot.
The prime contractor and systems integrator for the Patriot Air and Missile Defense System, responsible for the overall system, including its radar, command and control unit, and weapon control computer.
Developer and producer of the Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) family of missiles, the primary hit-to-kill interceptor used by the modern Patriot system.
The government agency responsible for managing the lifecycle of the Patriot system for the U.S. Army, including its development, modernization, testing, and fielding.
Develops critical technology for Patriot modernization, including the Integrated Air and Missile Defense Battle Command System (IBCS) which enables network-centric integration of Patriot with other defense systems.
A key European partner in the Patriot program, involved in production, modernization, and maintenance for several European nations. They are a partner in the joint venture COMLOG for Patriot logistics and support.
Provides essential electronic components and subsystems for the Patriot missile, including guidance electronics, control systems, and seeker technology.
A major subcontractor that provides support, components, and engineering services for the Patriot system, with historical involvement in the development of earlier missile variants.