Patriot missile integration into Mk41 VLS boosts Aegis air defence capabilities
A PAC-3 MSE Missile is fired during a MEADS test. (Photo: US Army)
Lockheed Martin has showcased integration of the Patriot PAC-3 MSE missile into the Mk41 VLS, giving it naval capabilities.
At the Surface Navy Association’s National Symposium, Lockheed Martin (LM) showcased the integration of the PAC-3 MSE Patriot missile into its naval Mk41 vertical launching system (VLS).
The company is investing in integrating Patriot to develop a ‘robust’ integrated air and missile defence (IAMD) capability into the Aegis Weapon System.
A spokesperson for the company told Shephard: ‘The PAC-3 family of missiles are combat-proven hit-to-kill interceptors that defend against incoming threats and deliver exponentially more kinetic energy on the target than can be achieved with blast fragmentation mechanisms.’
Asked what adjustments need to be made to the missile
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Naval Warfare
-
Shoreline vulnerability drives Gulf interest in USV networks
Ukraine’s combat-proven Magura uncrewed surface vessel is attracting Gulf state interest as the Iran war exposes gaps in layered maritime air defence, raising questions about whether low-cost attritable systems can gain a foothold in a procurement culture historically drawn to high-end Western platforms.
-
SOF Week 2026: US NSW explores 3D-printed USVs for forward-deployed operations
US Naval Special Warfare Command is assessing the feasibility of rapidly producing expendable mid-sized USVs in theatre to support SOF and maritime security missions.
-
SOF Week 2026: MARSOC selects upgraded Shark Marine dive navigation system
MARSOC is procuring the Shark Marine Dive Tablet 2 to address a longstanding combat diver navigation capability gap, improving underwater positioning, situational awareness and integration with existing diver propulsion vehicles.
