Lockheed Martin to increase THAAD missile interceptor production for Pentagon

Lockheed Martin will quadruple its production of Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) interceptors in a new agreement with the Pentagon. Production will increase from 96 to 400 interceptors per year over seven years.

THAAD, which intercepts missiles inside and outside the atmosphere, works alongside other missile defense systems. CEO Jim Taiclet stated that this agreement enhances the availability of interceptors to deter adversaries.

Each interceptor costs $12.77 million. THAAD batteries include launchers, interceptors, a fire control unit, radar, and support equipment. The U.S. military used THAAD batteries in conflicts last year, raising concerns about stockpile shortages.