The Patriot Weapon System, using the Patriot Advanced Capability (PAC)-3 missile, is the most mature hit-to-kill weapon system of the Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS). PAC-3 is now operational and fielded by the U.S. Army.

Patriot, using the PAC-3 missile, is a land-based element built upon the proven Patriot air and missile defense infrastructure. Patriot provides detection, track, and engagement of short-range ballistic missiles and cruise missiles.

The PAC-3 missile is a mobile, high-velocity, hit-to-kill interceptor developed to provide increased defense capability against short-range ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and aircraft. Unlike earlier versions of the PATRIOT missile, which use an explosive warhead to destroy their targets, the PAC-3 missile collides with its target in mid-air at extremely high speed, destroying the target and neutralizing its payload. Other system upgrades include: improved radar performance allowing enhanced target discrimination and new system software that improves determination of target launch and impact points and provides an interface with THAAD. PAC-3 is currently deployed with the U.S. Army around the world.

No, the U.S. Army is responsible for production and further development of the PAC-3; the Missile Defense Agency remains responsible for the BMDS and PAC-3 interoperability and integration efforts.

Check out the information on the PAC-3 page and the images and video in the PAC-3 Media Gallery.

All of the elements of the BMDS are described in our System section.
If you still have questions, check out the FAQs for:

• Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD),
• Command and Control, Battle Management, and Communications (C2BMC),
• Ground-based Midcourse Defense (GMD),
• Sensors, and
• Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD).