U.S. to Increase Missile Production for Possible Conflict with China

The U.S. Department of War has urged defense contractors to sharply boost missile production in preparation for a possible conflict with China.

This is according to a Wall Street Journal report citing unnamed sources.

In meetings with top defense executives, Pentagon officials pressed for production of key weapons to be doubled or even quadrupled, citing shortfalls in U.S. stockpiles. The discussions focused on 12 missile systems, including Patriot air defense missiles, long-range anti-ship missiles, Standard Missile-6 (SM-6), precision strike missiles, and joint air-to-ground standoff missiles.

Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said in a statement that President Donald Trump and Secretary Hegseth were exploring extraordinary ways to increase U.S. military strength and accelerate munitions production. This effort is being undertaken in collaboration with defense industry leaders and senior Pentagon officials.

Deputy Secretary of War Stephen Feinberg is leading the Munitions Acceleration Council initiative, holding weekly meetings with defense companies to push the plans forward.

Lockheed Martin and Raytheon, among the primary missile suppliers, are expanding their facilities and spare parts inventories. But industry officials noted reluctance to invest heavily without firm government funding commitments.

Officials identified the Patriot system as a priority, with U.S. stocks reportedly at just 25% of required levels. Demand has grown amid more than three years of Ukraine War, the recent 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran, and wider global interest in long-range and air defense systems.

Pentagon officials stressed that the lack of a European equivalent to the Patriot system makes it vital for both U.S. and allied defense planning.