WASHINGTON, — Lockheed Martin has unveiled the PAC-3 Edge, a next-generation missile interceptor designed to counter hypersonic weapons and other advanced aerial threats. Announced on October 9, the interceptor is the company's entry in the U.S. Army's Future Interceptor program, where it has advanced to the next stage of development.
The company plans to begin testing in 2027, with the goal of rapid deployment by 2031.
New Seeker and Propulsion System
PAC-3 Edge builds on the architecture of the combat-proven Patriot Advanced Capability-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (PAC-3 MSE), but incorporates a new seeker, an upgraded propulsion system and modified flight controls.
The seeker was developed at Lockheed Martin's Strigo Product Center, supported by a $250 million investment. The company also plans to invest approximately $800 million overall in seeker technology to support additional systems.
The interceptor uses a three-pulse solid rocket motor manufactured by Northrop Grumman. The motor is intended to improve range and altitude performance, while updated flight control systems are designed to enhance maneuverability and enable interception of aircraft, missiles and hypersonic threats at greater distances and higher altitudes.
Tim Cahill, president of Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, said PAC-3 Edge builds on the combat-proven PAC-3 MSE while delivering greater maneuverability, power and velocity.
Integration and Production Plans
The interceptor is designed to integrate with the U.S. Army's existing and future air and missile defense networks, including the Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS), M903 launcher, containerized launch systems and HIMARS Flex.
Lockheed Martin has also indicated plans to pursue integration of the PAC-3 missile family with the U.S. Navy's Aegis combat system for potential shipboard deployment.
Production is planned at the company's existing PAC-3 facility in Camden, Arkansas. The facility is being expanded and modernized with robotics, automation and other manufacturing improvements. Lockheed Martin expects the PAC-3 Edge to cost roughly the same as the PAC-3 MSE and is targeting production of approximately 2,000 interceptors annually.
PAC-3 Edge Joins the Expanding Interceptor Family
In July 2026, Lockheed Martin introduced the PAC-3 ACE, a lower-cost interceptor designed for faster production and priced at less than half the cost of the PAC-3 MSE. The ACE is intended to provide a more affordable option for meeting demand for air and missile defense systems, while the Edge focuses on improving performance against advanced threats.
Rising Global Demand Drives Production Expansion
Demand for Patriot-compatible interceptors has increased amid ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, including the conflict involving Iran. Ukraine has repeatedly requested additional Patriot systems from Western allies, and Ukrainian forces have reported high success rates using PAC-3 interceptors against ballistic and other missile threats.
To address shortages, Lockheed Martin and the U.S. government have established a seven-year framework to increase annual PAC-3 MSE production from approximately 600 to around 2,000 units. Related multiyear contracts have a potential value of about $58.6 billion.
Lockheed Martin is also working with industry partners and suppliers, including Boeing and L3Harris Technologies, to expand manufacturing capacity and accelerate deliveries.
The company is one of two manufacturers selected to advance in the U.S. Army's Future Interceptor program, according to Lockheed Martin. A full-scale model of the PAC-3 Edge is scheduled to be displayed at the Association of the U.S. Army conference.
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