Lockheed Martin has debuted its new PAC-3 Edge interceptor to add a revolutionary defensive capability against hypersonic threats.
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Press Release, Dallas TX, 09 October 2026: Today, Lockheed Martin debuted its new interceptor that will add a revolutionary defensive capability against hypersonic and advanced missile threats. The new interceptor, called PAC-3 Edge, leverages combat-proven PAC-3 MSE technology and the latest, industry-leading capability to deliver decisive performance against the Army’s most critical threats.
Lockheed Martin’s new interceptor is part of the US Army’s Future Interceptor programme currently in competition. The Army’s decision to progress Lockheed Martin into the next stage of development affirms its confidence in Lockheed Martin’s proven Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD) experience and the company’s ability to deliver an advanced, layered defence against what’s next. Lockheed Martin will advance development and begin testing PAC-3 Edge in 2027 to prepare for rapid deployment by 2031.
PAC-3 Edge delivers the highest level of performance through a transformative Lockheed Martin-built seeker designed by Lockheed Martin’s Strigo Product Center. This seeker will feature the most advanced defence technology available, enabling improved performance to counter the most advanced threats. PAC-3 Edge also features a multi-pulse solid rocket motor designed by Northrop Grumman, implementing advanced enhancements to deliver precision thrust throughout the interceptor’s flight. Lockheed Martin also implemented control system upgrades to deliver increased PAC-3 EDGE performance at range and altitude.
“Lockheed Martin’s PAC-3 Edge interceptor leverages the combat-proven PAC-3 MSE, delivering even greater manoeuvrability, power and velocity to ensure the Army’s layered defensive architecture remains the most advanced in the world,” said Tim Cahill, Lockheed Martin, Missiles and Fire Control president.
Why It Matters?
- Enhanced Threat Coverage – The new interceptor is designed to counter a wide range of air, missile and hypersonic threats at higher altitudes and longer ranges, expanding the Army’s IAMD coverage.
- Combat-Proven Lineage – PAC-3 Edge builds on the heritage of the PAC-3 family of missiles, which includes the lower cost PAC-3 ACE, legacy PAC-3 CRI and prestigious PAC-3 MSE, offering the most advanced interceptor capabilities to date.
- New Tech-Driven Capability – Lockheed Martin invested $250M into the Strigo Product Center to fuel new, industry-leading seeker technology that enables increased precision and manoeuvrability against evolving threats.
- Layered Defense – The new interceptor complements the Army’s existing IAMD capabilities, strengthening a multi-tiered shield that protects critical assets in the homeland and abroad.
- Integration through Innovation – PAC-3 Edge is designed to be integrated with existing and future IAMD capabilities including the Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS), the M903 launcher, containerised launchers and HIMARS Flex.
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