Article Posted on : - Feb 05, 2010

A File Photo of US Patriot missile.

TEWKSBURY, US (BNS): The US Army has awarded a $58.2 million contract to Raytheon to upgrade Patriot Guidance Enhanced Missile -Tactical (GEM-T) in its arsenal.

Under the contract, Raytheon will upgrade a total of 124 GEM-T missiles � an advanced version of Patriot Advanced Capability-2 (PAC-2) surface-to-air missiles � used by the American Army.

The improvisation will enhance the weapon�s performance against tactical ballistic and cruise missiles. In addition, select components will be replaced to extend the reliability and service life of the missiles, Raytheon said.

Patriot Guidance Enhanced Missile-Tactical (GEM-T) is an improved variant of PAC-2 missile. It is fitted with a new fuse and a new low noise oscillator that increases the seeker's sensitivity to low radar cross-section targets.

When fielded along with the PAC-3 missile system, the GEM-T provides high precision guidance and lethality against a range of ballistic and non-ballistic targets including aircraft, remote piloted vehicles and cruise missiles.

The US Army has been using the GEM-T missile system since 2006.