Lockheed Martin signs $218 million agreement with Karman to support THAAD interceptor production

Karman Space & Defense has signed a seven-year, $218 million agreement with Lockheed Martin to manufacture protective shrouds for Terminal High Altitude Area Defense interceptors. The structures shield critical components from aerodynamic forces and environmental conditions during launch and flight, then separate at a defined point in the engagement sequence. Signed on September 29 and announced on October 20, 2026, the agreement gives Karman a longer planning horizon for workforce, equipment and manufacturing-capacity investment. Lockheed Martin remains THAAD's prime contractor and systems integrator, with the supplier agreement supporting increased interceptor production for American and allied missile-defense requirements.