Lockheed Martin Introduces PAC-3 ACE™ – A High-Performance, Low-Cost Interceptor
PAC-3 ACE costs less than half of PAC-3 MSE
FARNBOROUGH, England. Lockheed Martin on July 20, 2026 announced the introduction of the PAC-3® Adapted Capability Effector (PAC-3 ACE™), a low-cost interceptor built to defeat a wide range of air and missile threats for less than half the cost of a PAC-3 MSE per unit.
PAC-3 ACE will give allied forces a rapidly fielded, complementary air defense effector option that can be deployed in record time. To achieve this, Lockheed Martin will collaborate with American and European industry partners and suppliers, enhancing the resilience of the US defense industrial base worldwide.
THE BIG PICTURE
Built on the proven PAC-3 fire-control system and fully linked to the Patriot weapon system and the Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS), PAC-3 ACE speeds up development, testing and deployment far beyond traditional programs. It also ensures allied forces can field a common interceptor and bolster the PAC-3 network at the same time.
WHY IT MATTERS
- Cost-effective performance: Significantly lowers the cost-per-kill against a wide range of threats, with the reliability PAC-3 is known for, while providing magazine depth the current global climate necessitates.
- Rapid fielding: Uses highly effective and battle-proven PAC-3 software and IBCS integration to shorten development cycles and achieve rapid initial production.
- Multi-threat coverage: Designed to counter airbreathing threats, cruise missiles, close-range and short-range ballistic missiles within a single platform.
- Allied resilience: Joint development and production with European partners creates a shared, interoperable interceptor that strengthens transatlantic defense posture.
EXPERT PERSPECTIVE
“American and allied warfighters need a solution that is battle-tested and budget-smart, and PAC-3 ACE delivers exactly that by building on the unrivaled performance of the PAC-3 MSE,” said Tim Cahill, President, Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. “As we look to partner with our allies, we can further enhance resiliency and ensure our forces can swiftly counter emerging threats today and tomorrow.”
