Pentagon Inks Deals with Boeing, RTX for Expanded SM-3 Production
The Pentagon has signed two framework agreements with Boeing and RTX to boost production of critical components for the Standard Missile-3 (SM-3), the Navy's primary ship-launched interceptor against ballistic missiles.
The deals cover avionics and ejector assemblies that Boeing supplies to prime contractor Raytheon, an RTX business, for both the SM-3 Block IB and the newer Block IIA variants. These components operate with the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense System to destroy incoming missiles outside the atmosphere.
According to Michael P. Duffey, under secretary of war for acquisition and sustainment, 'These agreements ensure our Warfighters get the munitions they need to win.' The frameworks run for seven years and allow Boeing to start building components before a contract is in place, while the three sides negotiate a multiyear deal.
The long-term commitment aims to give suppliers enough certainty to invest in added capacity. The Pentagon has been working to lock in supply from key subcontractors alongside prime contractors as part of its broader effort to stabilize defense industrial base production.