Lockheed Martin integrates Patriot PAC-3 missiles into Aegis missile defence system

Lockheed Martin is preparing to test the Patriot PAC-3 interceptor as part of the Aegis missile defence system. The company's vice president and general manager of Naval Combat and Missile Defense Systems, Joe DePietro, made the announcement.

Here's What We Know

The US defence contractor was able to "friend" the PAC-3 with the Aegis Ashore system. Trials took place throughout September and November last year. The company now plans to integrate the PAC-3 into the Aegis missile defence system.

PAC-3 will not be a replacement but a complement to Standard Missile-6 (SM-6). According to Joe DiPietro, using PAC-3 and SM-6 will increase the flexibility of the air defence system. Additional testing will take place next year.

Lockheed Martin is investing in upgrading the PAC-3 to integrate with the MK 41 Vertical Launch System (VLS). The company wants to modify the guidance system to establish S-band communication.

Source: Janes