BAE Delivers 1,000th THAAD Seeker for Ballistic Missile Defense Program

August 26, 2025

-

BAE Systems recently delivered its 1,000th infrared seeker to Lockheed Martin for integration on the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) interceptor missile, achieving a major production milestone. The THAAD seeker provides key sensing and guidance capabilities that help protect the U.S. and its global allies from ballistic missiles.

BAE Systems has designed and manufactured innovative infrared technology for the THAAD interceptor since the program’s inception. Guided by the company’s advanced sensor technology, THAAD interceptors engage ballistic missiles and can destroy warheads with kinetic force both inside and outside of the atmosphere.

“At BAE Systems, we support our nation and its allies with the most advanced capabilities and technologies,” said Neeta Jayaraman, product line director for Precision Guidance and Sensing Solutions at BAE Systems. “The 1,000th THAAD seeker delivery reinforces our collaboration with Lockheed Martin and showcases our ability to deliver reliable next-generation targeting systems on time, enhancing precision-strike capabilities to counter emerging threats.”

THAAD is a highly effective defense against short-, medium-, and intermediate-range ballistic missile threats. Its seeker uses innovative sensors to identify and lock onto targets and route interceptors to incoming targets.

“The strategic importance of the combat-proven THAAD Weapon System in defending our nation and its allies has never been more globally highlighted than in recent months,” said Dawn Golightly, Lockheed Martin’s vice president for Upper-Tier Integrated Air and Missile Defense. “Our production team and suppliers remain committed in their support of THAAD’s mission, and we look forward to our continued partnership with BAE Systems and our valued supply chain network.”

A leader in precision-guided munitions, BAE Systems has been developing seeker technology for more than 40 years. The company’s highly skilled and experienced workforce manufactures complex THAAD seekers, leveraging extensive design and production expertise and robust supply chain management to ensure effectiveness and reliability.

BAE Systems’ work on the THAAD seeker takes place at the company’s state-of-the-art facilities in Nashua, New Hampshire, and Endicott, New York.

Source : BAE Systems PLC