Lockheed Martin successfully delivered Sweden’s first Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) interceptors in April, providing the country with the world’s most advanced air defense missile that uses Hit-to-Kill technology to defend against incoming threats. Sweden decided to request an offer for the Patriot system in November 2017 and in August 2018 an agreement was signed for 4 units and 12 launchers to form 2 battalions. No follow up orders are to be made.
“By choosing PAC-3 MSE for missile defense, our customers around the world know they have the combat-proven technology needed to stay ahead of rapidly-evolving threats,” said Brenda Davidson, vice president, PAC-3 Programs, Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. “We’re proud to deliver this advanced capability to Sweden so they can best defend their armed forces, citizens and infrastructure.”
U.S. and Swedish officials formalized an agreement for Sweden to purchase PAC-3 MSE interceptors and related support equipment in August 2018. The initial cost was to be around 10 Billion SEK but the price is deemed much higher and is now classified, known as Luftvärnssystem 103 (Anti-air system 103) in Swedish service, would be delivered in 2021 and 2022. The first Swedish troops were training on the system at Fort Sill in December 2018. Försvarets materielverk accepted the first deliveries in April 2021 and System Integration and Check Out was initiated by Försvarsmakten.
The MIM-104 Patriot (Phased Array Tracking Radar to Intercept on Target) is a surface-to-air missile (SAM) system, the primary of its kind used by the U.S. Army and several allied nations. The PAC-3 MSE’s revolutionary two-pulse solid rocket motor provides increased performance in both altitude and range while employing the same proven Hit-to-Kill technology that the PAC-3 CRI missile uniquely brings to the Patriot system. The two-pulse solid rocket motor and enhanced airframe gives the interceptor more maneuverability against faster and more sophisticated tactical ballistic missiles and cruise missiles.
