Lockheed unveils lower-cost Patriot interceptor PAC-3 ACE

Lockheed Martin introduced the PAC-3 Adapted Capability Effector (ACE), a cheaper Patriot-compatible hit-to-kill interceptor claimed to cost less than half of the PAC-3 MSE while working with legacy Patriot equipment and IBCS. The novelty is a cost-focused interceptor variant aimed at improving sustainability against mass, low-cost threats like drones and cruise missiles by reducing per-shot cost and easing integration.