Lockheed Martin has delivered the Minimum Engagement Package (MEP) for the eighth battery of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system to the U.S. government. The MEP includes three launchers along with a fire control unit designed to work in tandem with Raytheon Technologies’ AN/TPY-2 radar. Additional components will be supplied later this summer. This important delivery significantly strengthens the U.S. Army’s capacity to defend critical assets nationwide and worldwide against ballistic missile threats.
Lockheed Martin has been the lead contractor for THAAD since 1987, playing an essential role in the system’s design, production, and integration. The first U.S. THAAD battery, A-4, was activated by the Army in May 2008. In 2022, the Missile Defense Agency awarded a contract for the eighth battery’s production. The addition of this battery will provide greater flexibility and rapid response to emerging threats, protect key infrastructure and military assets, and enhance the overall effectiveness of U.S. missile defense systems.
THAAD is a battle-tested, cutting-edge missile defense system utilizing hit-to-kill technology to intercept and destroy ballistic missiles both inside and outside the atmosphere. Boasting a flawless flight test intercept record and exceptional speed and precision, THAAD provides a vital defense layer against short, medium, and intermediate ballistic missile threats. Its combat-proven status and immediate operational readiness continue to garner interest worldwide.
