Patriot GEM-T Intercepts Two Target Drones

Released on Tuesday, February 08, 2005

Raytheon company has announced that its Patriot GEM-T missile successfully intercepted two target drones near vertically during a test conducted recently at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico.

The GEM-T missiles were launched using a Patriot PAC-3 fire unit. All went as planned with both missiles intercepting and destroying the two target drones. The ground equipment and the radar system seamlessly interfaced with the GEM-T missile. The test was supported by soldiers from the 3rd Battalion, 43rd Air Defense Artillery, stationed at Fort Bliss, Texas.

The Patriot GEM-T is a low cost, cost effective upgrade for the PAC-2 missile which provides significant capabilities for countering the full range of airborne threats including short-range ballistic missiles, tactical aircraft and cruise missiles. The missile upgrade is available to the US Army and approved international allies.

This test is an important milestone for the GEM-T missile program because it was in support of a full material release decision. Raytheon is currently under contract to deliver 376 upgraded missiles to the US Army, of which 230 missiles have already been delivered.