RTX subsidiary Raytheon is significantly increasing production of the FIM-92 Stinger missile by establishing a broader manufacturing network across Europe. The initiative follows previous agreements to localize production and improve supply chain resilience for NATO members. Under the program, Germany’s Diehl Defence will manufacture the missile’s advanced guidance section while additional components will be sourced from suppliers throughout Europe. Final assembly, system integration, testing, and certification will be completed in the Netherlands. Expanding European manufacturing capacity enables faster delivery schedules, reduces dependence on overseas production, and strengthens regional defense-industrial cooperation. The Stinger remains one of the world’s most successful man-portable air defense systems, capable of engaging helicopters, low-flying aircraft, cruise missiles, and increasingly unmanned aerial threats. Lessons from recent conflicts have highlighted the growing importance of mobile short-range air defense systems, prompting NATO members to expand inventories while simultaneously supporting development of future interceptor technologies to address evolving aerial threats.
