Archive · 28 Jul 2026
US Revives PAC-2 Missiles Amid Global Interceptor Shortage
The US Army has ordered PAC-2 GEM-T missiles for the first time in over 30 years to address a shortage of interceptor missiles.
This decision comes as the US and its allies face increasing demand due to conflicts in Ukraine, West Asia, and operations against Iran.
The PAC-2 missiles are cheaper and can be produced more quickly than the advanced PAC-3 missiles.
The US is also expanding production of PAC-3 and THAAD systems to meet future operational requirements.
This move highlights the urgency of rebuilding stockpiles and reducing dependence on a single type of interceptor.
The US Army has ordered PAC-2 GEM-T missiles for the first time in over 30 years.
The $441 million contract aims to replenish depleting inventories and meet global demand.
PAC-2 missiles are cheaper and can be produced more quickly than PAC-3 missiles.
The US is also expanding production of PAC-3 and THAAD systems.
Global demand for interceptors is outpacing supply due to multiple conflicts.
- Who
- US Army, Raytheon, Lockheed Martin, L3Harris
- What
- Procurement of PAC-2 GEM-T missiles and expansion of PAC-3 production
- When
- Recent contract and framework agreements
- Where
- United States, Germany
- Why
- To address missile shortages and meet global demand amid multiple conflicts
Cost-Effective Solution
Advanced Capability
Missile Procurement Strategy
Cost-Effective Solution
The PAC-2 GEM-T is a cost-effective solution to replenish rapidly depleting inventories, allowing for quicker production and lower costs per unit.
Advanced Capability
The PAC-3 MSE offers superior advanced capabilities, making it the preferred choice for high-threat scenarios despite its higher cost.
- Contract Value
- $441 million
- PAC-2 GEM-T Cost
- Lower than PAC-3 MSE
- PAC-3 MSE Cost
- More than $5 million each
- Patriot Interceptors Fired in 2026
- 1,060 to 1,430
- Manufacturers
- Raytheon (PAC-2), Lockheed Martin (PAC-3)
- Production Expansion
- Raytheon and Lockheed Martin increasing production
- Framework Agreements
- L3Harris and Lockheed Martin for PAC-3 MSE and THAAD systems