The US Department of Defense signed agreements with Northrop Grumman, in coordination with Lockheed Martin, to expand the production capacity of critical missile-interceptor components.
The Department of Defense stated that these agreements aim to triple Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) production and quadruple Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) production.
According to the Department of Defense, the agreements are intended to strengthen interceptor supply chains, speed up deliveries, and bolster US air and missile defense.
Production expansion and supply chain resilience
Agreements for the PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) establish a second source for solid rocket motors. The Department of Defense stated that establishing this second source would improve competition and supply chain resilience. The agreements also increase the production of ignition safety devices used in PAC-3 interceptors.
The THAAD program agreements call for a fourfold increase in the production of interceptor structural components, including mid-body shells, muzzle covers, and rail car assemblies.
Building the Arsenal of Freedom requires robust, dynamic supply chains.
Michael P. Duffey, the US under secretary of defense for acquisition and sustainment, said that framework agreements with munition components suppliers like Northrop Grumman are vital to accelerating the tripling of PAC-3 and quadrupling of THAAD interceptor production.
