Boeing achieves record production of Patriot system seekers
Expands manufacturing capacity
Boeing reached a significant milestone in 2024, with production of its Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) seekers hitting an all-time high.
The Seattle-based company delivered over 500 PAC-3 seekers in the past year, marking a notable achievement in developing the advanced technology used by the Patriot air defence system.
In early 2025, Boeing set new records for monthly and 12-month rolling average production, as the company sought to meet the growing global demand for air defence systems following the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
The PAC-3 seeker is a vital component that enhances the capabilities of the Patriot system, enabling it to identify, track, and neutralise a wide array of threats, including hostile aircraft, ballistic missiles, and cruise missiles. As geopolitical tensions and security challenges continue to rise, the demand for such advanced interceptors has never been higher.
In response to this increasing demand, Boeing has outlined plans to ramp up its production of PAC-3 seekers throughout 2025 and beyond.
The company is also in the final stages of constructing a new 3,300-square-metre factory expansion, scheduled for completion in the spring of 2025. This new facility will allow Boeing to significantly increase its production capacity and meet future needs for the PAC-3 seeker, solidifying its position as a key player in global defence and security.
Jim Bryan, Director of Integrated Air & Missile Defence at Boeing, stated, “We know that service members and civilians are increasingly depending on us to deliver this critical component for the world’s best air defence system.
“This capability exemplifies our air and missile defence expertise, which we can leverage to address major challenges, such as America’s next-generation homeland defence shield and more.”
Boeing’s strategic plan to expand PAC-3 seeker production has involved considerable investments and facility improvements. This includes modernising manufacturing processes with state-of-the-art equipment, such as automated inspection and robotic soldering technology, improving production controls, and ensuring superior first-time quality.
Additionally, Boeing has strengthened its relationships with suppliers, providing a more agile, affordable, and resilient supply chain.
Boeing, a subcontractor to Lockheed Martin, produces PAC-3 seekers for the US Army and international partner nations. Seventeen countries worldwide, including Ukraine, now rely on PAC-3 interceptors as part of their air defence systems.
Image: A PAC-3 seeker during testing. Boeing will ramp up its production of the interceptor in 2025 and beyond. Credit: US Army/Boeing
