Lockheed’s PAC-3 ACE: a cheaper Patriot interceptor to extend stockpiles

Lockheed Martin unveiled the PAC-3 Adapted Capability Effector (ACE), a cheaper Patriot interceptor priced at less than half of the PAC-3 MSE and compatible with legacy Patriot systems and the Integrated Battle Command System. Debuted at Farnborough 2026, ACE targets air-breathing threats, cruise missiles and short-range ballistic missiles, aiming to ease high interceptor costs and depleted stockpiles as drones and inexpensive munitions proliferate in modern conflicts.