Lockheed PAC-3 Missile Interceptor Reaches IOC Status; Scott Arnold Comments

The Lockheed Martin-built PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement interceptor has received initial operational capability designation from the U.S. Army.

The company’s PAC-3 MSE achieved the IOC status two years after Lockheed obtained  milestone C approval for the missile interception system and received its initial contract for the technology from the service branch in 2014, Lockheed said Tuesday.

Scott Arnold, vice president of PAC-3 programs at Lockheed’s missiles and fire control business, said the IOC designation seeks to provide warfighters access to an interceptor that works against “the full spectrum of lower-tier threats.”

Lockheed delivered the first PAC-3 MSE interceptors to the service branch in October after the company introduced updates to the missile, such as the integration of larger solid-rocket motors and installation of new support systems and control fins.

The PAC-3 missile uses a hit-to-kill technology platform that works to counter tactical ballistic missiles, aircraft and cruise missiles.