Overview
- Lockheed publicly debuted the PAC-3 Edge as its next‑generation Patriot interceptor and says it has advanced to the next stage of the Army’s Future Interceptor competition as one of two vendors, a claim the Army has not independently confirmed.
- The company describes PAC-3 Edge as longer ranged, able to operate at higher altitude, more maneuverable, and fitted with a more sensitive seeker to better counter advanced and hiding targets.
- Lockheed plans to begin flight testing in 2027 and targets initial deployment around 2031 while producing the missile on its existing PAC-3 line in Camden, Arkansas after a planned factory modernization.
- Lockheed says it has committed hundreds of millions of dollars of its own money to the program, is developing the seeker in‑house, and is working with Northrop Grumman on a three‑pulse solid rocket motor to extend range and altitude.
- The announcement follows earlier stops and starts in the Army’s interceptor efforts and comes as the Pentagon and Congress shape procurement and funding decisions that will determine how fast testing, production and fielding can scale.