Patriot

     The replacement for Nike Hercules and Improved Hawk, the Patriot was designed to defend against high performance air-breathing targets. The system could simultaneously acquire, identify, track and destroy multiple targets. In the early 90s it was successfully modified to intercept tactical ballistic missiles. Each launcher can carry four missiles which are protected in their shipping containers. The missiles are launched out of their containers. In the foreground is the Patriot Missile outside the Launch Canister.  In the background is the Patriot Launcher with a simulated missile protruding as it would very shortly after being launched.   U.S. Army

• Length: 17.5 feet
• Diameter: 16 inches
• Weight: 2,000 pounds
• Propellant: Solid
• First Firing: 1970