November 18, 2004 :: The Missile Defense Agency :: News
The Missile Defense Agency today completed another successful test of the Patriot Advanced Capability-3 interceptor, at White Sands Missile Range. The test was described as “the most complex flight test scenario to date for PAC-3,” with some six missiles in the air at one time. Also of significance is that the test included the use of radar for the separate, Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) ballistic missile system. Tests of THAAD are set to resume in 2005.
Two separate missile targets were destroyed in the exercise, one a modified Patriot made to simulate an enemy missile (Patriot as a Target, or PAAT), and a Storm Maneuvering Tactical Target Vehicle, a missile capable of maneuvering in flight. Two Patriots were launched at each target by being “ripple-fired,” with one missile being fired right after the other. In both cases, the first missile hit the target and the second missiles self-destructed. (Article)
» MDA press release on PAC-3 test
» Orbital description of Storm Maneuvering Tactical Target Vehicle
» More stories on: Land-Based Systems, Testing - American
» Missile system details for: Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3), Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)
