The German Air Force conducted a successful flight test of the Lockheed Martin PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) interceptor, which was launched from a German-modified M903 launcher. The test was conducted to demonstrate the compatibility between the launcher and the interceptor against a virtual tactical ballistic missile target. The test was a critical final step before the delivery of the first shipment of PAC-3 MSEs to Germany.
MBDA Deutschland partnered with Lockheed Martin to modify the launcher to enable the integration of the PAC-3 MSE missile. The successful test proves that the PAC-3 MSE is ready for deployment in Germany and will enhance the country’s air defense capabilities against evolving threats.
According to Dennis Goege, Lockheed Martin Vice President of Central and East Europe, “Delivering PAC-3 MSE to Germany will enhance German air defense capabilities and increase lethality against evolving threats. The recent flight test proves that PAC-3 MSE is ready for deployment in Germany.”
Germany already employs the PAC-3 Cost Reduction Initiative (CRI) interceptor in their air defense arsenal, and the procurement of PAC-3 MSE was agreed upon by the US and German governments in 2019.
The successful flight test is a significant milestone in the partnership between Germany and the United States in the field of air defense. The PAC-3 MSE is a highly capable interceptor that can provide multi-mission defense against a variety of threats, including tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and aircraft.
The German Air Force has been working to modernize its air defense capabilities to meet the evolving threats in the region. The successful integration of the PAC-3 MSE missile into its air defense arsenal will provide the country with a significant boost in its air defense capabilities.
The PAC-3 MSE is a part of the Patriot air defense system, which has been used by the United States and its allies for over 30 years. The system has been continuously upgraded to meet the evolving threats and remains a critical component of air defense systems worldwide.
