US signs deals to significantly boost Patriot and THAAD missile production
The US has signed two seven-year contracts with General Dynamics and Lockheed Martin to sharply increase production of interceptor components for Patriot and THAAD systems, with PAC-3 MSE output set to triple and THAAD interceptor output to quadruple.
The US Department of War has announced two seven-year agreements with General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems (GD-OTS) and Lockheed Martin, aimed at substantially increasing and speeding up the supply of critical components for interceptor missiles used in the Patriot and THAAD air defense systems.
Production targets
Under the agreements, production of PAC-3 MSE interceptors used in Patriot systems is planned to triple. Output of interceptors for the THAAD system is set to increase fourfold compared to current levels.
Building a lasting production base
The Pentagon says the goal extends beyond a one-time production surge — it wants to establish a manufacturing base capable of sustaining the elevated output pace for years to come.
Why now
The decision comes amid strong demand for air and missile defense systems and a significant depletion of US interceptor stockpiles from previous deliveries and use. Patriot and THAAD systems are widely deployed by US forces and allied nations, including in support of Ukraine's defense against Russian missile and drone attacks.
