US Pushes Defence Firms to Ramp Up Weapons Production

The US Defense Department is stepping up pressure on weapons manufacturers to accelerate production as concerns grow over dwindling missile and interceptor stocks amid the prolonged Iran conflict. Deputy Secretary of Defense Steve Feinberg has reportedly directed defence companies to submit aggressive production-expansion plans within three weeks, stressing that critical capabilities must be increased without waiting for years. Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell has also confirmed that replenishing weapons needed by US forces is a priority under the military’s broader modernization efforts.

The shortage has become particularly concerning in the area of advanced air-defence weapons used to intercept missiles and drones. Reports indicate that Patriot interceptors have fallen sharply from pre-war levels, while THAAD interceptor stocks have also declined. Analysts warn that reduced inventories could force US and allied forces to use air-defence missiles more selectively, increasing the risk of a successful drone or missile strike. President Donald Trump, however, has rejected concerns about a weapons shortage, saying the US has substantial supplies and that more weapons are being produced and can be transported by ships when required. At the same time, efforts to significantly increase the Pentagon’s defence budget are facing resistance in Congress.