Lockheed Martin Enhances Bahrain’s Defence With PAC-3 MSEs

15 Nations Deploy The Firm’s Hit-To-Kill Technology

Lockheed Martin has delivered an initial consignment of Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) interceptors to Bahrain.

These interceptors will enhance the Gulf nation’s air and missile defence capabilities and bolster regional security. This marks the first multiple shipments of advanced defence systems to Bahrain.

The PAC-3 MSE interceptors, renowned for their advanced capabilities, are set to fortify Bahrain’s defence infrastructure against various threats, including tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and aircraft.

Brenda Davidson, Vice President of PAC-3 Programmes at Lockheed Martin, highlighted the PAC-3 MSE’s combat-proven Hit-to-Kill technology’s impact on Bahrain’s deterrence capabilities and safeguarding its national sovereignty.

“PAC-3 MSE is a combat-proven Hit-to-Kill interceptor that can defend against tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, advanced threats, and aircraft,” stated Davidson.

“PAC-3 MSE will help Bahrain deter evolving regional threats and defend its national integrity.”

Evolving Security Challenges

With the United States, Germany, Kuwait, Japan, Qatar, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Taiwan, the Netherlands, UAE, Romania, Poland and Sweden also opting for PAC-3 to bolster their air and missile defence capabilities, Lockheed Martin’s PAC-3 MSE interceptors have emerged as a trusted solution in safeguarding nations against evolving security challenges.

In a related development, on March 28, 2024, the United States and Poland finalised an agreement for Poland to procure Lockheed Martin’s PAC-3 MSE missiles and associated support equipment.

Poland’s decision to acquire PAC-3 MSE marks a significant milestone, making it the fifth international customer to procure these advanced interceptors this year.

Tim Cahill, Vice President of Integrated Air and Missile Defence at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, highlighted the importance of Poland’s partnership in reinforcing global security.

“We’re honoured to partner with Poland to support the WISŁA Air and Missile Defence system to protect and defend their armed forces, citizens, and infrastructure,” Cahill said.

Poland’s procurement of PAC-3 MSE adds to the growing list of nations, including the United States, Qatar, Japan, Romania, and the United Arab Emirates, which have chosen to integrate these interceptors into their defence architecture.

Lockheed Martin’s PAC-3 MSE upgrade to the Patriot air defence system enhances the system’s performance with a dual-pulse solid rocket motor, providing increased altitude and range.

These interceptors utilise Hit-to-Kill technology, intercepting threats through kinetic energy via body-to-body contact, ensuring precise and effective defence against various threats.

The PAC-3 and PAC-3 MSE interceptors have gained global recognition for their reliability, lethality, and accuracy.

Featured image: Lockheed Martin’s PAC-3 MSE deploys Hit-to-Kill technology. Credit: Lockheed Martin