Raytheon, a business unit of RTX, announced plans to double its global production capacity for Stinger missiles through a new manufacturing partnership in Europe. The initiative aims to address increasing international demand for the lightweight air defense system.
Under the agreement, Diehl Defence will manufacture the guidance section, which is a critical component of the missile, and source additional subcomponents from various European suppliers. Raytheon is collaborating with Dutch suppliers to produce other major assemblies. The final missiles will undergo assembly, testing, and completion in the Netherlands.
Tom Laliberty, president of Land & Air Defense Systems at Raytheon, stated that the company is focused on expanding production capacity to strengthen its industrial base and broaden its global network. He emphasized that the expansion ensures allies have reliable access to this air defense capability.
The Stinger missile is a self-contained system deployed by ground troops to engage cruise missiles and aircraft. It is currently the preferred surface-to-air missile for 24 nations, including 10 members of NATO.
Helmut Rauch, chief executive officer of Diehl Defence, expressed pride in the renewed cooperation with Raytheon, noting that the two companies previously produced relevant parts for the missile. He described the production of the guidance section as a significant chapter in their partnership.
The expanded European production capacity is intended to support future efforts with the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) to meet demand within Europe. The NSPA is an organization that assists NATO members with logistics and procurement.