U.S. bolsters ballistic missile defenses - Lockheed Martin receives $50 million to support development of PAC-3 MSE interceptor for THAAD missile defense system

The United States continues to work on integrating the Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) Missile Segment

Enhancement (MSE) to the Terminal High Altitude Air Defense (THAAD) missile defense system.

What is known

The US Department of Defense announced the allocationLockheed Martin $50 million to support the development of the PAC-3 MSE anti-missile for the THAAD complex. Work under the contract will take place at the plant in Texas and should be completed before December 31, 2025.

Lockheed Martin at the end of March, 2022 announcedon the successful integration and testing of the PAC-3 MSE as part of the THAAD missile defense system. In tests conducted jointly with the Missile Defense Agency and the US Army, THAAD was able to successfully strike an aerial threat simulating a ballistic missile.

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According to the manufacturer, THAAD with PAC-3 MSEprovides multi-layered missile defense. The missile interceptor differs from the version for the MIM-104 Patriot anti-aircraft missile system in the presence of a new power plant. The engine increases the launch range and maneuverability of the ammunition.