(Pentagon) Signs 7-Year Agreements to Double Production of Interceptor Missiles

Washington, Aug 31 (KUNA) – The U.S. Department of Defense (Pentagon) announced on Monday the signing of seven-year contracts with American companies Lockheed Martin and General Dynamics to enhance and expand the production of interceptor missiles. In a statement, the ministry said it was launching “multi-year procurement contracts aimed at increasing production volumes and accelerating delivery schedules for critical missile subcomponents that support interceptor missile programs.” It added that the goal is to triple the production capacity of Patriot PAC-3 MSE interceptors and quadruple that of THAAD systems. The contracts also include intensifying the manufacturing of key subcomponents, including motor cases, seeker housings, midbodies, and deployable cover (shroud) systems. Michael Duffey, Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, said in a statement that the announcement “represents a model for evolving our partnership approach with the defense industry to expand the freedom arsenal and counter emerging threats, ensuring that the American fighter never faces a fair fight but instead guarantees decisive superiority.” (End) R.S.R./A.M.H.