© 
American defense giant Lockheed Martin has unveiled the PAC-3 Edge, a new missile interceptor designed to counter advanced hypersonic weapons developed by Russia and Iran. According to The War Zone (TWZ), the system represents the most advanced version of the Patriot missile family to date.
The publication highlighted the growing challenges facing modern missile defense systems. Russian forces have refined their ballistic missile tactics to penetrate Patriot defenses in Ukraine, while Iran has demonstrated methods of exploiting weaknesses in layered air defense networks.
TWZ pointed to Iran’s use of extremely fast ballistic missiles and cluster warheads that disperse their payloads at high altitudes as examples of threats that existing missile defense systems must address.
One of the PAC-3 Edge’s major improvements is its upgraded guidance system. The interceptor features multimode guidance technology capable of tracking maneuvering aerial targets while distinguishing genuine threats from decoys.
Lockheed Martin has also introduced significant changes to the missile’s propulsion system. Its new engine allows the interceptor to adjust its speed and maneuver during flight, potentially improving its ability to engage complex and highly maneuverable targets.
The company previously disclosed additional technical details about the PAC-3 Edge, including an advanced seeker, an updated flight control system and a multi-pulse rocket motor developed by Northrop Grumman.
According to Lockheed Martin, these technologies will expand the interceptor’s ability to engage modern airborne threats, including hypersonic missiles, at greater ranges and higher altitudes.
The PAC-3 Edge is intended to strengthen the Patriot system’s ability to counter increasingly sophisticated missile threats, particularly those involving high speeds, evasive maneuvers and advanced penetration tactics.