WASHINGTON, JUL 27: The Pentagon on Monday announced a seven-year framework agreement with defense contractors L3Harris and Lockheed Martin to expand production capacity for Patriot interceptor missiles and the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile defense system.
The agreement focuses on manufacturing critical components for the Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) interceptor, as well as key parts for THAAD, including its solid rocket booster motor and the Liquid Divert and Attitude Control System (LDACS).
LDACS enables THAAD interceptors to maneuver in flight and destroy ballistic missile threats both inside and outside Earth’s atmosphere, according to the Pentagon.
“Rebuilding the Arsenal of Freedom requires moving with speed and precision to scale the production of critical munitions,” Pentagon Undersecretary of War for Acquisition and Sustainment Michael Duffey said.
Duffey called the agreement with L3Harris a “decisive win” for US troops, saying it sends a clear long-term demand signal throughout the defense industrial base.
The announcement follows similar agreements with Boeing and Honeywell to expand production of PAC-3 MSE missile components.
The Trump administration has prioritized accelerating weapons production by cutting procurement delays and reducing bureaucracy, particularly after the recent conflict with Iran significantly depleted US stocks of missiles and missile interceptors.
“By providing industry with clear, stable, long-term demand, the Department of War is fostering a more robust, resilient, and responsive defense industrial base, ensuring the US military always outpaces any adversary on the factory floor,” the Pentagon said on Monday.
