US boosts Patriot THAAD production

The United States — United States Department of Defense signed a framework deal with Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman to expand production capacity for components of the Patriot PAC-3 and THAAD missile interceptor systems. The agreement aims to triple Patriot production and quadruple THAAD production, addressing strained US weapons stockpiles due to conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine. The deal establishes a second source for PAC-3 solid rocket motors and ramps up output of ignition safety devices. It follows a contract awarded last week by the United States — United States Department of the Army to Lockheed Martin worth up to $58.6 billion for Patriot interceptor missiles. Northrop Grumman separately announced multi-year framework agreements totaling over $3 billion to accelerate production of PAC-3 MSE components and increase monthly deliveries of THAAD components over seven years.