Dec 17, 2025 11:50 AM
Over-the-shoulder is a new Patriot capability, allowing interceptors to engage ballistic and cruise missiles from any direction, features vertical cold-launch missiles, extended range, and higher altitude.
The US Army is addressing one of Patriot’s most persistent shortcomings: its ability to engage threats outside a narrow forward arc.
A new variant, recently revealed by US Army officials, will be able to intercept hostile ballistic and cruise missiles approaching from behind, including threats that have already passed overhead.
This so-called “over-the-shoulder” upgrade significantly expands the system’s ability to engage targets from any direction, delivering full 360-degree coverage.
Read the full story on NextGen Defense: America’s Patriot Air Defense Goes Full 360 With ‘Over-the-Shoulder’ Strike
US Army•MIM-104 Patriot•air-to-surface-missiles•ballistic missiles•United States•cruise missile•Patriot air defense system•Patriot missile
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