Overview of the Milestone
BAE Systems has recently delivered its 1,000th infrared seeker to Lockheed Martin for integration into the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) interceptor missile—a significant production milestone achieved on August 26, 2025.
Technical Significance of the THAAD Seeker
The seeker is a critical component of the THAAD guidance system. Using advanced infrared technology, it identifies and locks onto incoming ballistic missile warheads traveling at speeds up to ~17,000 mph, guiding the interceptor to neutralize the threat via kinetic impact, both inside and outside the atmosphere. BAE has been designing and manufacturing this sensor technology since THAAD’s inception.
Corporate Statements
Neeta Jayaraman, Product Line Director for Precision Guidance and Sensing Solutions at BAE Systems, stated:
“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.”
Dawn Golightly, Lockheed Martin’s Vice President for Upper-Tier Integrated Air and Missile Defense, added:
“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. … Our production team and suppliers remain committed in their support of THAAD’s mission…”
Production Facilities
BAE Systems manufactures the THAAD seekers at facilities located in Nashua, New Hampshire, and Endicott, New York.
Systemic Importance and Global Context
- THAAD is a mobile anti-ballistic-missile system capable of intercepting short-, medium-, and intermediate-range threats in their terminal phase using hit-to-kill dynamics.
- The deployment of THAAD has expanded beyond the U.S. to nations such as the United Arab Emirates, South Korea, Israel, Romania, and Saudi Arabia.
- BAE’s milestone underscores robust industrial support and technological evolution in missile defense during a time of escalating global threats.
