U.S. DoW Signs Agreements with L3 Harris, Lockheed Martin to Increase Patriot, THAAD Components Production

The U.S. Department of War (DoW) announced two seven-year framework agreements with L3Harris and Lockheed Martin to expand production capacity for key components of the Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) interceptor and the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) weapon system.

Under this agreement, L3Harris will accelerate the production of its advanced two-pulse solid rocket motor, Attitude Control Motors, and the Lethality Enhancer.

The motors deliver the critical speed, extended range, and precise maneuverability the PAC-3 MSE needs to defeat advanced tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and enemy aircraft.

Concurrently, the THAAD interceptor propulsion agreement, signed by the DoW, L3Harris, and Lockheed Martin, will expand manufacturing of two critical components: the solid rocket boost motor that launches the interceptor and the highly responsive Liquid Divert and Attitude Control System (LDACS). The LDACS provides the vital in-flight maneuverability required to engage and neutralize ballistic missile threats both inside and outside Earth's atmosphere.

This agreement follows a series of PAC-3 MSE framework agreements with prime contractor Lockheed Martin, seeker manufacturer Boeing, and multi-component supplier Honeywell.

The interceptors of both the THAAD and Patriot air defense systems are in severe short supply due to the wars in Ukraine and Iran as they are considered the most reliable when it comes to intercepting Russian, Iranian missiles and drones.