The U.S. Army successfully conducted a Controlled Flight Test of the PATRIOT Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) interceptor at White Sands Missile Range, NM, today at 0900 Mountain Daylight Time. Preliminary test data indicates mission objectives were successfully achieved.

The test demonstrated hardware, Canister (1-Pack), and PAC-3 MSE missile functionality, interfaces, integration with the PATRIOT System and missile fly-out functions.

  Test objectives of this mission included:
      -- Demonstrating PATRIOT System integration
      -- Demonstrating missile flight functions
      -- Collecting data to evaluate missile aerodynamic, structural, and
         thermal responses to natural and induced environments.

The PATRIOT PAC-3 Missile system successfully completed operational testing and began fielding in 2002. It was first used in combat during Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003.

The PAC-3 MSE interceptor is the newest addition to the PATRIOT family of PAC-3 Missiles. The PAC-3 Missile provides a highly agile, hit-to-kill missile to the PATRIOT legacy missile inventory. The MSE missile provides increased capability against advanced tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and other air-breathing threats.

The PATRIOT PAC-3 MSE program is managed by the U.S. Army Program Executive Office for Missiles and Space and executed by the Lower Tier Air and Missile Defense Project Office in Huntsville, AL. Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, Dallas, TX, is the prime contractor responsible for the PAC-3 Missile Segment. Raytheon Systems Company, the PATRIOT system prime contractor, is the system integrator for the PAC-3 Missile Segment.

Classification: UNCLASSIFIED

Caveats: NONE

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

SOURCE: Lockheed Martin