The Swedish Government has formalised an agreement with the US to acquire the Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) missiles and related support equipment.
Built by Lockheed Martin, PAC-3 is an advanced, capable and powerful theatre air defence missile that uses ‘hit-to-kill’ technology that engages threats through kinetic energy through body-to-body contact.
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The company serves as the prime contractor on the PAC-3 MSE upgrade to the Patriot air defence system.
The upgrade helps expand the lethal battlespace with a dual-pulse solid rocket motor, thereby ensuring enhanced performance in altitude and range.
PAC-3 MSE is a high-velocity interceptor that protects soldiers against incoming threats, including tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and aircraft.
Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control PAC-3 vice-president Jay Pitman said: “We’re honoured to partner with Sweden on their efforts to protect and defend their armed forces, citizens and infrastructure.
“Today’s global security environment demands reliable hit-to-kill technology and innovative solutions. PAC-3 MSE interceptors will provide Sweden with a formidable layer of defence.”
With the signing of the contract, Sweden will become the sixth international customer to procure the PAC-3 MSE missile.
The US, Qatar, Japan, Romania, Poland and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are the other nations to procure the PAC-3 missiles.
The Government of Sweden has also signed a Letter of Offer and Acceptance to acquire Raytheon’s Patriot air and missile defence system from the US Army.
Raytheon Integrated Defense Systems president Wes Kremer said: “Patriot in Sweden will enhance Northern European security and further strengthen the Trans-Atlantic partnership by providing a common approach to Integrated Air and Missile Defense.”
