Layered missile defense integration demoed for U.S. Army
NewsMarch 30, 2022
BETHESDA, Md. Lockheed Martin, the Missile Defense Agency (MDA), and the U.S. Army have further integrated the PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) interceptor into the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) Weapon System for a more integrated, layered missile defense system.
During a demonstration, the THAAD system launched a PAC-3 MSE to intercept a tactical ballistic missile target using proven Hit-to-Kill technology without the support of a Patriot fire unit, intended to yield greater flexibility for the warfighter.
According to the company, integration into the THAAD Weapon System could allow the PAC-3 MSE to launch earlier, enabling a longer flyout and the full use of the MSE’s kinematic capability. The test also validates the flexibility of the PAC-3 missiles, which have now been launched from various systems.
THAAD is designed for endo-and exo-battlespace, using Hit-to-Kill technology to execute its aim-point accuracy to intercept a threat with direct impact. PAC-3 MSE is an evolution of the PAC-3 Cost Reduction Initiative (CRI) and also uses Hit-to-Kill technology to defend against threats.
