WASHINGTON: The US Defense Department has asked American defense companies to rapidly increase weapons production and accelerate deliveries as the war with Iran puts growing pressure on US military stockpiles.
According to a memo cited by The Washington Post, Pentagon officials have instructed major defense contractors to submit plans for significantly faster production of critical weapons and military capabilities.
Pentagon Gives Defense Firms 21 Days
Deputy Defense Secretary Steve Feinberg reportedly told industry executives on Wednesday that they had a maximum of 21 days to present detailed plans for accelerating production and deliveries.
The memo called for “significantly faster” delivery schedules and increased production of critical military capabilities.
Feinberg also warned that years-long development and production cycles would no longer be acceptable.
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The Pentagon is instead seeking a major expansion in production capacity and faster delivery of weapons needed by the US military.
Iran War Puts Pressure on US Weapons Stocks
The reported directive comes as the Iran war has placed significant pressure on American weapons inventories.
US missile interceptors are reportedly among the systems facing shortages after extensive military operations.
The shortage has raised concerns within the Trump administration over Washington’s ability to sustain a prolonged conflict while maintaining sufficient weapons for other potential security challenges.
Trump Denies Dispute Over Hegseth
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump on Thursday denied reports that he was dissatisfied with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over depleted US missile-interceptor stockpiles.
Reports had suggested that concerns over declining weapons inventories were discussed by Trump and his senior advisers before the administration decided against further escalating its military campaign against Iran toward the end of last month.
The reported shortage has nevertheless intensified pressure on the Pentagon and US defense industry to increase production.
Defense Industry Faces Demand for Faster Output
The Pentagon’s request could put additional pressure on major US defense contractors to expand manufacturing capacity and shorten delivery timelines.
Increasing production of advanced weapons can normally take years because of complex supply chains, specialized components and strict testing requirements.
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However, the Pentagon now appears to be seeking immediate measures to increase the availability of critical weapons systems.
The move highlights the growing challenge facing Washington as it attempts to sustain military operations while rebuilding weapons stockpiles.
