Pentagon ramps up weapons production

TDT | Manama

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The United States Department of Defense, commonly known as the Pentagon, announced on Wednesday a series of agreements with major defense companies to significantly increase the production of weapons and ammunition, as it shifts toward a “war readiness” posture amid the ongoing conflict with Iran, now nearing its fourth week.

According to the Pentagon, a framework agreement has been signed in collaboration with BAE Systems and Lockheed Martin to quadruple the production of seeker systems used in the THAAD missile defense system interceptor missiles.

The announcement follows an earlier agreement with Lockheed Martin to double the production of THAAD interceptor missiles themselves.

In a statement, the Pentagon said the deal provides BAE Systems with the “necessary stability for long-term investment,” while ensuring rapid and large-scale supply of this critical component.

The Department emphasized that securing these vital components will enhance the United States’ ability to produce and deploy this key defensive system at levels exceeding any potential threats faced by the country or its allies.

The Pentagon added that ensuring THAAD component supply marks a shift toward a new operational model focused on speed, scale, and achieving decisive superiority over emerging threats.

In a separate agreement, the Department of Defense also partnered with Honeywell Aerospace to increase production of essential components for the US munitions stockpile. These include navigation systems, advanced engines such as Honeywell Assure, and electronic warfare-related systems.

The Pentagon revealed a $500 million investment led by Honeywell Aerospace to modernize and expand its manufacturing capabilities.

Under this agreement, Honeywell will accelerate delivery of components described by the Pentagon as the “technological backbone of US military superiority.”

“Production rates will increase for navigation systems that guide precision munitions, high-performance engines that provide missiles with critical maneuverability, and advanced electronic warfare solutions that dominate the battlefield,” the Pentagon said.