Lockheed Martin Demonstrates Enhanced PAC-3 MSE Capability in US Army Flight Test

White Sands Missile Range, N.M., July 8. On June 26, 2025, at the White Sands Missile Range (WSMR), the US Army and Lockheed Martin conducted a critical flight test mission, showcasing the evolving capability of PAC-3 MSE within the PATRIOT system.

During the flight test, PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) interceptors engaged an Air Breathing Threats (ABTs). The missions used software updates and new seeker algorithm designs for the PAC-3 MSE. These enhanced capabilities enable the PATRIOT system to effectively counter emerging threats in contested environments.

“We’re continuously evolving PAC-3 to address the increasingly complex threat landscape,” said Brian Kubik, Vice President of PAC-3 Programs. “Recent global events highlight the vital role PAC-3 plays in delivering integrated air and missile defense to protect lives, infrastructure and strategic assets. As we address the growing international demand for PAC-3’s proven capabilities,this flight test reinforces our commitment to delivering cutting-edge technology that enhances the system’s ability to detect, track, and engage advanced threats.”

PAC-3 MSE is combat proven against advanced threats including hypersonics, tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and air breathing threats. PAC-3 missiles defend against incoming threats through direct body-to-body contact delivering exponentially more kinetic energy on the target than can be achieved with blast fragmentation mechanisms.