US Defense signs deals to boost Patriot THAAD production

The United States Department of Defense announced framework agreements on Monday, August 3, 2026, with defense contractors Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman to dramatically increase production of components for two key missile defense systems. The agreements aim to triple the output of Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) interceptors and quadruple production for the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system.

The move is part of a broader push to replenish U.S. air defense stockpiles that have been heavily depleted by ongoing conflicts. Officials cited the war with Iran, which began on February 28, 2026, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine as primary strains on inventories. The Patriot and THAAD systems have been used extensively to intercept Iranian missiles and drones over the past five months, with some estimates suggesting the U.S. has used nearly two-thirds of its Patriot stockpile and nearly half of its THAAD interceptors.

The framework agreements focus on specific components to strengthen and accelerate the supply chain. For the Patriot system, the deal establishes a second source for solid rocket motors and increases production of ignition safety devices....