What Happened
Pentagon Signs Mega Contract to Replenish Critical Air Defence Stocks
The United States has signed a $58.6 billion deal with Lockheed Martin to produce Patriot interceptor missiles, aiming to replenish dwindling air defence stocks amid ongoing conflicts in Iran and Ukraine. The contract, which covers fiscal years 2026 to 2032, is part of a broader Pentagon push to rapidly expand missile production. According to reports, concerns over shrinking US missile inventories have influenced President Trump’s decision to pause plans for a broader military offensive against Iran. This development was first reported by The Times of India.