A key missile defense component manufactured by Boeing in Huntsville has been named the “coolest thing made in Alabama” this year.

Manufacture Alabama, a trade association for the state’s manufacturers and partner industries, announced the award for the company’s Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) seeker Thursday at the conclusion of its annual Manufacturing Madness competition.

The PAC-3 seeker component allows the Patriot air defense system’s interceptors to identify, track and defeat threats, including hostile aircraft and ballistic and cruise missiles. Patriot is fielded by U.S. forces and global allies. Boeing produces the seekers as a subcontractor to Lockheed Martin.

“We’re incredibly proud to manufacture the PAC-3 Seeker—an essential component of the world’s premier air defense system—right here in Alabama,” said Jim Bryan, director of Boeing Integrated Air & Missile Defense. “It’s an honor to be recognized, and we’re grateful to our talented teammates in Huntsville who consistently deliver this lifesaving capability for the service members and the civilians around the world who rely on it.”

Boeing recently announced it produced over 500 PAC-3 seekers in Huntsville last year, an all-time record. The company expects to open a 35,000-square-foot expansion of its Huntsville facility this spring, which will enable up to a 30% increase in PAC-3 seeker production.

The aerospace giant’s product faced stiff competition to be named “coolest thing made in Alabama.” More than 130,000 votes were cast, according to Manufacture Alabama, across 44 entries representing 10 industry sectors. The other three finalists were:

• A.C. Legg’s Blend 10 Pork Sausage Seasoning, manufactured by A.C. Legg
• ROHACELL® manufactured by Evonik, a rigid foam used as a core material in sandwich structures
• Tork Coreless High-Capacity Toilet Paper Roll White T7, advanced manufactured by Essity Professional Hygiene

“This competition not only celebrates the incredible products made right here in Alabama, it’s a testament to the people, companies and communities driving innovation across our state,” said Jon Barganier, president and CEO of Manufacture Alabama, in a news release.