PATRIOT Advanced Capability-2 (PAC-2)
The Patriot Advanced Capability-2 (PAC-2) is a US Army one-stage, solid-fuel, ground-launched interceptor designed to destroy tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, or aircraft with a conventional high-explosive warhead. With a maximum speed of over 3,500 mph, it operates between 1.5 and 20 miles altitude and a range in excess of 60 miles. The PAC-2 Guidance Enhanced Missile +, with an improved warhead and missile acquisition and tracking system, was built by Raytheon Corporation and entered service in 2002. It was used during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
PAC-2 Photos
PATRIOT Advanced Capability-2 (PAC-2). Some stations are shown deployed in the Persian Gulf during Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm and some at White Sands Missile Range, N.M.
2001
Oct. 19, 2001
The following sequence of photos shows the PAC-2 intercept of a simulated cruise missile target over White Sands Missile Range on October 19, 2001.
1994
Nov. 14, 1994
PATRIOT is a mobile, field Army and core air defense system, which uses guided missiles to simultaneously engage and destroy multiple targets at varying ranges. Several shots of PATRIOT launchers and launches.
Aug. 17, 1994
Upgrades to the PAC-2 will further improve the PATRIOT system through radar modifications and incorporation of the Extended Range Interceptor, ERINT.
June 2, 1994
Based on hit-to-kill technology, ERINT has successfully concluded preliminary testing with three successive direct hits on its targets. ERINT missile versus drone target.
Feb. 13, 1994
ERINT missile versus STORM target.
