The United States has signed a $35 billion contract with Lockheed Martin to increase production of THAAD missile‑interceptor systems fourfold over the next seven years. The agreement, one of the largest in U.S. missile‑defense history, aims to address concerns about dwindling interceptor stocks and rising missile threats worldwide. Lockheed Martin will invest more than $9 billion by 2030 to expand production lines, build new factories and boost industrial capacity.
THAAD is designed to track and destroy short‑, medium‑ and intermediate‑range ballistic missiles in the terminal phase of flight, with the ability to engage targets both inside and outside the atmosphere. Each THAAD battery includes interceptors, a mobile launcher, a radar with over 1,000 km detection range, and a command‑and‑control system.
U.S. officials say recent large‑scale missile attacks and high interceptor usage have highlighted the need for rapid production expansion, making the contract a key part of Washington’s broader plan to strengthen missile‑defense capabilities in the coming years.