Affordable Patriot PAC-3 Variant
The extensive use of the PAC-3 air defence interceptor in the recent clashes with Iran in the Middle East and Gulf has resulted in the introduction of low cost version of this widely used system. Lockheed Martin 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.
According to the company PAC-3 ACE will give allied forces a rapidly fielded, complementary air defence 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 U.S. defence industrial base worldwide.
The PAC-3 Adapted Capability Effector (PAC-3 ACE) meets the demand for an affordable Patriot effector that can be rapidly deployed. (Image: Lockheed Martin)
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.
According to LM the new version 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.
The American company also said that it used highly effective and battle-proven PAC-3 software and IBCS integration to shorten development cycles and achieve rapid initial production. Joint development and production with European partners create a shared, interoperable interceptor that strengthens transatlantic defence posture.
” 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 unrivalled 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.”
Arie Egozi
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Lockheed Martin introduced the PAC-3 Adapted Capability Effector (PAC-3 ACE), a low-cost air defense interceptor designed to counter various air and missile threats. This new system, developed in response to recent clashes in the Middle East and Gulf, can be rapidly deployed and enhances the existing Patriot defense network. The PAC-3 ACE leverages proven technology and involves collaboration with American and European industry partners to strengthen defense capabilities.
- Lockheed Martin introduced the PAC-3 ACE, a low-cost interceptor.
- PAC-3 ACE is designed to defeat a wide range of air and missile threats.
- The new interceptor can be deployed rapidly and enhances the U.S. defense industrial base.
- PAC-3 ACE is built on the proven PAC-3 fire-control system and is linked to existing defense systems.
- The development involves collaboration with American and European partners.