Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3)
Abstract
Patriot, the centerpiece of the Army's air defense forces, is an extremely capable, long range, low-to-high altitude air defense missile system, which provides air defense of ground combat forces and high-value assets. Patriot is designed to cope with enemy defense suppression tactics that may include Tactical Ballistic Missiles (TBM), cruise missiles, anti-radiation missiles, and advanced aircraft employing saturation, maneuver, sophisticated Electronic Countermeasures (ECM), and low radar cross-section. Patriot air defenses will be integrated into the overall area air defense plan in support of the combatant commanders mission that can include other short-range, low altitude forward area and Joint assets for a theater of operations based upon the threat. The Patriot system can conduct multiple simultaneous engagements in all weather conditions and hostile ECM environments against high performance Air Breathing Threats (ABT) and TBMs with a high probability of target kill. System deployment is by Fire Unit (FU) at the battery-level, organized within a battalion. Each FU consists of an Engagement Control Station (ECS), one Radar Set (RS), an Electric Power Plant, and up to 16 Launching Stations (LS). The Patriot RS is a multi-function phased array radar, which performs a variety of surveillance, acquisition, and guidance tasks and is controlled by the ECS which provides the human interface for control of automated operations. The M902 LS (Configuration 3), with Enhanced Launcher Electronics System, supports the Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) missile as well as providing backwards compatibility with the PAC-2 missile variant. At the battalion level, command and control is exercised through the Information and Coordination Central, and associated communications equipment, including the Communications Relay Group. Both the FU and battalion have dedicated support, communications, and maintenance vehicles.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA614933