Lockheed Martin has unveiled PAC-3 Edge™, a new interceptor designed to strengthen air and missile defence capabilities against hypersonic weapons and other advanced missile threats. The system builds on the combat-proven PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) technology and is being developed for the US Army’s Future Interceptor programme.
The company’s selection to advance to the next stage of the programme reflects the US Army’s continued interest in Lockheed Martin’s integrated air and missile defence capabilities. The new interceptor is intended to expand the Army’s ability to engage sophisticated threats at greater ranges and altitudes.
Lockheed Martin plans to continue development and begin testing PAC-3 Edge in 2027, with the objective of preparing the system for rapid deployment by 2031. The interceptor incorporates several technology upgrades aimed at improving precision, manoeuvrability and performance. A new seeker, developed by Lockheed Martin’s Strigo Product Center, is designed to improve the system’s ability to detect and engage advanced threats. The company has invested $250 million in the Strigo Product Center to support the development of advanced seeker technology.
PAC-3 Edge will also feature a multi-pulse solid rocket motor developed by Northrop Grumman. The propulsion system is designed to provide controlled thrust throughout the interceptor’s flight, supporting manoeuvrability and engagement performance. Additional control system improvements are intended to enhance performance at extended ranges and higher altitudes. Together, these developments are designed to improve the interceptor’s ability to address evolving air and missile threats.
Tim Cahill, President of Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, said, “Lockheed Martin’s PAC-3 Edge interceptor leverages the combat-proven PAC-3 MSE, delivering even greater maneuverability, power and velocity to ensure the Army’s layered defensive architecture remains the most advanced in the world.”
The PAC-3 Edge programme is intended to complement existing US Army air and missile defence systems rather than replace the wider defence network. The interceptor is being designed for integration with current and future capabilities, including the Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS), the M903 launcher, containerised launchers and HIMARS Flex. The PAC-3 family includes several interceptor variants, including PAC-3 CRI and PAC-3 MSE. The new PAC-3 Edge builds on this technology base while introducing additional propulsion, seeker and control system capabilities.
Lockheed Martin develops defence technologies and integrated mission systems for military and government customers worldwide. Its work spans air, land, sea, space and cyber domains, with a focus on advanced systems for national security. With PAC-3 Edge, the company aims to advance interceptor technology and provide the US Army with additional options for strengthening its layered defence against increasingly complex missile threats.
