Boeing Accelerates SM-3 Production to Counter Russian Ballistic Threats

Boeing is ramping up production of critical components for the SM-3 surface-to-air missile, which can counter Russia's Oreshnik medium-range ballistic missiles. The US-based company signed a 7-year framework agreement with the Pentagon and Raytheon (RTX) in February 2026 to increase output volumes even before concluding a multi-year contract. Specifically, Boeing will boost production of avionics and ejection mechanisms for Block IB and Block IIA modifications.

The SM-3 forms the basis of NATO's overall missile defense within the Aegis system and is deployed on destroyers and at ground Aegis Ashore complexes in Romania and Poland. The missile can shoot down Russian MRBMs, including Oreshnik, as well as intercontinental ballistic missiles. According to plans, the US aims to produce 100 SM-3 missiles annually with Japan's cooperation, eventually moving toward 250 annually.

The increased production is a response to growing demand for interceptors to counter ballistic threats. The US has been actively working on increasing weapons and ammunition production, but this process takes time, leaving the country in deficit amid enormous global demand.