Flaws in the Hercules missile system revealed a vital need for an interceptor capable of providing missile defense while maintaining a shield against high-performance aircraft. One system has proven itself before all others in the field of defense against anti-ballistic missiles (ABM) and against air-breathing threats (ABT); this system is the PATRIOT. Throughout its history, the PATRIOT has proven itself to be a serious competitor in the global air defense community. The concept of a medium- and high-altitude missile interceptor was initially formed during the Cold War. The country needed a system capable of engaging missiles in flight to counter the threat of Soviet short-range ballistic missiles (SRBMs). In October 1964, the Secretary of Defense ordered the creation of the Surface-to-Air Missile Development (SAM-D) program to meet this need. Raytheon won the contract for the SAM-D program. They began development, focusing on the functionality and unique features of the interceptor. In 1969, the first product of the SAM-D program was successfully launched, extending Raytheon's hold on the SAM-D contract. With the increase in funding, Raytheon created the Technical Development Division (EDD). The EDD is responsible for expanding systems engineering methods in accordance with threats and system requirements established by the Army Air Defense Evaluation Board. (Redstone Arsenal) The EDD completed the development program in 1974. A year later, the first test resulted in a successful aerial engagement. On May 21, 1976, the SAM-D missile system was renamed the PATRIOT Air Missile Defense System. They chose the name "PATRIOT" to emphasize the air defense system's role as a staunch defender of American freedom and in middle of paper......history, the PATRIOT was a true lifesaver. With its many components and upgrades, it continues to be improved. One system has proven itself before all others in the field of defense against anti-ballistic missiles (ABM) and against air-breathing threats (ABT); this system is the PATRIOT.Works CitedArmy-technology.com Patriot Missile Air Defense System, USA.Raytheon. Patriot air and missile defense system. Redstone Arsenal. PATRIOT.Headquarters, Department of the Army. US Army Air and Missile Defense Operations. Fort Sill: HQDA, 2009. Jay, Erin Flynn. “US military expands use of Patriot air and missile defense system.” Military Space and Missile Forum, November/December issue 2009.