Lockheed Martin to Quadruple THAAD Interceptor Production Under Pentagon Deal
WASHINGTON — January 30, 2026
Lockheed Martin announced on Thursday that it has reached a framework agreement with the US Defense Department to significantly expand the production of Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile interceptors.
Production Capacity to Rise Sharply
Under the agreement, Lockheed Martin will increase annual THAAD interceptor production from 96 units to 400. The move aims to strengthen missile defense capabilities for the United States and its allies.
Part of Broader Missile Defense Expansion
The new deal builds on a similar framework agreement signed earlier this month between Lockheed Martin and the Pentagon. That earlier agreement focused on speeding up the production of PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) interceptors.
Together, the two agreements reflect a broader effort to improve manufacturing speed and supply reliability for key missile defense systems.
Company Cites Deterrence Goals
Lockheed Martin CEO Jim Taiclet said the agreement supports ongoing reforms in military procurement. He noted that the company continues to align its production plans with the Defense Department’s strategy to modernize weapons acquisition.
Taiclet added that the expanded production capacity will result in a larger supply of interceptors than ever before, which he said will help deter potential adversaries.
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