In a significant move towards enhancing its domestic defense capabilities, Saudi Arabia has successfully produced the first locally manufactured components for the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile launcher. This milestone is part of a broader collaboration with Lockheed Martin, aimed at boosting the kingdom’s manufacturing capabilities in the defense sector.
The announcement was made during a recent meeting in Jeddah, attended by key stakeholders, including representatives from Lockheed Martin, the Saudi General Authority for Military Industries, and the Arabian International Company for Steel Structures (AIC). During this gathering, defense officials and industry experts reviewed the advancements made in producing Missile Round Pallets-Transportable, an essential element of the THAAD system.
Wasim Attieh, president of AIC Steel, expressed optimism about the partnership, stating, “Lockheed Martin has been an excellent partner in providing the tools and training necessary to prepare and ultimately advance the localized production of such a major component of the THAAD Weapon System.” This collaboration not only represents a technical achievement but also aligns with Saudi Arabia’s strategic goal of bolstering its local defense industry.
The THAAD system itself is a US-developed missile defense technology designed to intercept short- and intermediate-range ballistic missiles, demonstrating capabilities to operate both within and beyond the Earth’s atmosphere. In March 2022, the system’s integration with the PAC-3 MSE interceptor marked a significant enhancement in its engagement range and operational flexibility.
Investments in local defense production have been ramping up significantly, with Saudi Arabia actively pursuing the localization of 50 percent of its defense spending under its Vision 2030 initiative. This ambitious plan encourages foreign defense companies to establish local operations, fostering economic growth and technological advancements within the kingdom.
In parallel with its efforts to enhance indigenous production, Saudi Arabia continues to rely on imports for advanced military hardware. Recently, the US State Department approved a substantial $3.5 billion sale of AIM-120C-8 AMRAAM missiles to the kingdom, following a prior clearance for a $100 million deal involving up to 2,000 APKWS II laser-guided munitions. This dual approach of investing in local production while maintaining vital international procurement relationships underscores Saudi Arabia’s strategic balancing act in strengthening its defense capabilities.
