Lockheed Martin's PAC-3 Missile successfully detected, tracked and intercepted an aerodynamic tactical ballistic missile (TBM) target in a test at White Sands Missile Range, N.M.

The test included a ripple fire engagement, utilizing two PAC-3 Missiles against a single target. The first interceptor destroyed the target and the second PAC-3 Missile self destructed as planned.

"We continue to demonstrate the effectiveness of the PAC-3 Missile in tests that duplicate the kinds of operational scenarios our soldiers and our allies may face," said Richard McDaniel, vice president of PAC-3 Missile programs in Lockheed Martin's Missiles and Fire Control business.

"We are constantly improving the PAC-3 Missile, increasing its capabilities and expanding the missile's ability to handle the growing number of potential threats."

The PAC-3 Missile is one of the world's most advanced, capable and reliable theater air defense missiles.

It defeats advanced tactical ballistic and cruise missiles, and fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft.

As the most technologically advanced missile for the PATRIOT air defense system, PAC-3 significantly increases the PATRIOT system's firepower, allowing 16 PAC-3 Missiles to be loaded in place of just four legacy PATRIOT PAC-2 missiles on the launcher.