The PAC-3 missile is a mobile, high-velocity, hit-to-kill interceptor developed to provide increased defense capability against short-range ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and aircraft. Unlike earlier versions of the PATRIOT missile, which use an explosive warhead to destroy its target, the PAC-3 missile collides with its target in mid-air at extremely high speed, destroying the target and neutralizing it's payload. Other system upgrades include: improved radar performance allowing enhanced target discrimination; and new system software that improves determination of target launch and impact points and provides an interface with THAAD. PAC-3 is currently deployed with the U.S. Army around the world.

No, the U.S. Army is responsible for production and further development of the PAC-3; the Missile Defense Agency remains responsible for the Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS) and PAC-3 interoperability and integration efforts.