PrSM: Lockheed signs framework with DoW to quadruple production

Lockheed Martin is set to quadruple production of the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) under a new framework agreement with the Department of War. It marks another step in the US administration’s moves to increase its missile stockpiles. 

By Sam Cranny-Evans, editor of Calibre Defence, published on March 26, 2026.

Just two months after signing a framework to quadruple THAAD production, Lockheed is set to do the same for PrSM. The new agreement builds on a $4.94 billion production contract awarded in 2025. Together, they set the grounds for quadrupled production, a March 25 press release states.

“Lockheed Martin is mobilizing the full might of its industrial and technological power to build the Arsenal of Freedom by dramatically accelerating production of this critical munition,” the press release states.

The company will be able to negotiate for a contract with a duration of up to seven years under the agreement. The THAAD framework was signed in January 2026, setting the ambition to increase production from 96 interceptors per year to 400. 

No figures were provided for PrSM production. However, in October 2025, the company reported that it was aiming for 400 missiles per year. It follows that the latest framework could be targeting the potential for 1,600 of the missiles per year.

Raytheon has received similar contracts and agreements from the DoW. It is expected to increase annual production of Tomahawk, AMRAAM, SM-3, and SM-6 missiles, which are all key elements of the US arsenal. According to Raytheon, some production rates are expected to grow by up to four times.

The PrSM programme is advancing rapidly, having recently completed the first test firing of the Increment 2 missile. It has also been used during Operation Epic Fury, although what it was fired at is unclear. 

Calibre comment: The role of conventional weapons in a major war

Conventional precision strike weapons like PrSM are critical components of a conventional war. Amidst the calls clamouring for western forces to lean into the “drone revolution,” it is important to remember the role of conventional missiles. Some of Ukraine’s more effective strikes, including against Russia’s Kilo class submarine and Kremniy El factory, used cruise missiles. In addition, the opening strikes of Operations Epic Fury and Roaring Lion were conducted by stand-off weapons like PrSM. In the event of a war with Russia, NATO would need thousands of cruise missiles to degrade its air defences, industry, and command nodes. 

Massed one-way effectors like Russia’s Gerans, or MBDA’s concept released last year, have their place. They can facilitate attacks against air defences and infrastructure, but are not a replacement for high end complex weapons. Equally, the ability to withstand a massed attack relies on interceptor depth. The US is scaling its production to meet commitments in the Middle East, but also with an eye on the Indo-Pacific. 

If you would like to read more on the US’s missile programmes, check out the links below: 

• PrSM Increment 2 in first flight test – Calibre Defence 
• Lockheed to quadruple THAAD production – Calibre Defence 
• RTX to double missile production under DoW frameworks – Calibre Defence 
• MBDA unveils One Way Effector – Calibre Defence 

The lead image shows a PrSM missile being fired from an M142 HIMARS launcher. Credit: US Army.