What are the elevation restrictions for PAC-3 launchers?

• A. 0 to 90 degrees elevation.
• B. ±45 degrees from launcher firing azimuth and out to 880 meters beyond the launcher.
• C. Vertical launch only.
• D. ±60 degrees and 1,000 meters beyond.

Answer: (C)

Elevation restrictions for PAC-3 launchers are vertical launch only. The interceptor missiles used in PAC-3 sit in vertical launch canisters and are fired straight upward from the launcher. After launch, the missile’s own propulsion and flight control steer it toward the target, rather than the launcher tilting to adjust the aim. This vertical launch configuration simplifies the launcher design and provides a consistent initial flight path for all interceptors. Other elevation schemes would require the launcher to tilt or sweep in angles, which PAC-3 does not use.