The program is known as the Air-Launched Hit-to-Kill, or ALHTK, initiative. If successful, the program would eventually see U.S. Air Force fighter aircraft equipped with PAC-3s that they could air launch. The speed and range of the F-15s would carry the PAC-3s far closer to their targets than was previously imagined possible and give them a boost of up to around 1,500 miles per hour, or faster than Mach 2, significantly improving their performance and the likelihood that they could intercept and destroy incoming intercontinental ballistic missiles.

"Envisioned to protect the homeland from missile threats, ALHTK could also defend deployed forces," Lockheed Martin said in a statement Tuesday. "A risk assessment contract that concluded in April 2006 identified the feasibility of pursuing this high-payoff concept. The new Risk Reduction/Concept Definition Program will refine the risk, and further define the concept and expected system performance." it said.

"This study matures the concept of operations for launching the hit-to-kill PAC-3 Missile from tactical fighter aircraft and prepares us for the next phase, a proposed system demonstration of the capability," said Mike Trotsky, vice president - Air and Missile Defense at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control.

"Equipping fighter jets with PAC-3 Missiles would provide Combat Air Patrols or scrambled aircraft the ability to defeat cruise missiles and intercept ballistic missiles in asymmetric defense and boost phase applications. Although cruise missile defense capabilities are inherent with this concept, this MDA contract will focus on ALHTK capabilities against ballistic missiles," Trotsky said.

"The initial operational concept would fit in with North American Air Defense operational architecture, fielded at first on F-15C fighter aircraft. Future spiral development plans may aim to equip other aircraft with the capability," Lockheed Martin said.

"Lockheed Martin is focused on delivering reliable advanced technologies and systems for the U.S. government and its allies," said Trotsky. "When the stakes are highest, our customers rely on proven hit-to-kill technology to assure protection of troops and assets."

No other theater air defense missile can match the PAC-3 Missile in its ability to defeat the entire Patriot threat. It is the most advanced and capable interceptor in the Patriot missile system.

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