U.S. to Triple PAC-3 Missile Seeker Production

Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) launch | Photo: Boeing

The U.S. Department of War has signed a seven-year framework agreement with Boeing, alongside Lockheed Martin, to increase production of seekers for the Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) Missile Segment Enhancement system. The agreement aims to triple production capacity of the seeker component, which is critical for missile guidance.

The initiative forms part of a broader effort to expand production of PAC-3 interceptors and strengthen the defence industrial base. The seeker, produced by Boeing, provides active measurement data that enables the missile to identify, track and intercept targets. The agreement supports a previously announced plan to increase overall PAC-3 MSE missile output.

The framework reflects a shift in procurement strategy, with the Department engaging directly with suppliers across the supply chain. Officials said this approach is intended to provide long-term demand visibility and encourage investment in manufacturing capacity, workforce and infrastructure.

“To build a true Arsenal of Freedom, we must strengthen every link in the chain,” said Michael Duffey, Under Secretary of War for Acquisition and Sustainment. “This agreement with Boeing is a direct reflection that speed, volume, and a resilient supply chain are paramount. We are moving beyond the old model and forging direct partnerships with critical suppliers to ensure the entire defense industrial base is postured to expand production and deliver the decisive capabilities our warfighters need at speed and scale.”

Boeing said it has invested more than $200 million since 2024 to expand seeker production capacity, including a 35,000 square-foot facility expansion in Huntsville, Alabama. The agreement allows for further investment across the production chain and supports scaling output to meet demand.

“Across the nation and around the world, we’re making significant investments in people and facilities to meet the evolving security needs of the United States and its allies,” said Steve Parker, president and CEO of Boeing Defense, Space & Security. “The administration’s Acquisition Transformation Strategy empowers industry to invest and accelerate the delivery of complex systems at scale and strengthen the Department’s Arsenal of Freedom. With this framework, we’ll be able to produce and deliver more advanced seekers and enhance our military’s advantage.”

“This agreement paves the way for us to scale rapidly to deliver increasingly sophisticated seekers,” said Bob Ciesla, vice president, Boeing Precision Engagement Systems. “In 2025, we increased deliveries by over 30% and we’re excited for the opportunity to grow our highly skilled workforce and our presence in Huntsville as we now triple production.”

Under the agreement, production ramp-up will begin immediately, with negotiations for a multi-year contract expected later in 2026.