Lockheed Martin is developing a cheaper Patriot interceptor called the PAC-3 Adapted Capability Effector, or PAC-3 ACE, as demand for missile defense rises and existing interceptor stocks come under heavy pressure. The new missile is designed to cost less than half as much as the PAC-3 MSE while remaining compatible with the existing Patriot weapon system and its software architecture. The PAC-3 ACE achieves its lower cost through simplified hardware and is intended to complement, rather than replace, the more capable PAC-3 MSE. Lockheed says it will target aircraft, cruise missiles and short-range ballistic missiles, giving Patriot operators a potentially cheaper way to increase interceptor numbers against high-volume threats. Production could begin around 2028, according to reporting. #Russia #Iran #ballistic #Missile #LockheedMartin