The Trump administration plans to meet top US defense contractors at the White House on Friday to discuss accelerating weapons production after recent strikes on Iran. Officials said the meeting highlights urgent efforts to replenish depleted munitions and advanced weapon systems. Lockheed Martin, Raytheon parent RTX, and other major suppliers were invited, reflecting Washington’s focus on maintaining military readiness. Observers noted that recent conflicts, including in Ukraine and Gaza, have drawn heavily on US stockpiles.
Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and Israel’s operations in Gaza, billions of dollars’ worth of artillery, ammunition, and anti-tank missiles have been expended. The Iran operation consumed longer-range missiles than previously supplied to Kyiv, raising concerns over supply shortages. Officials indicated that the White House meeting will press weapons manufacturers to accelerate output and meet growing demand. The session underscores the administration’s intent to maintain strategic military advantages amid ongoing global tensions.
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Deputy Defense Secretary Steve Feinberg has been coordinating a supplemental Pentagon budget request of approximately $50 billion to replenish weapons used in recent conflicts, sources said. This funding could be approved as early as Friday and would cover procurement of missiles, drones, and other military assets. The figure remains preliminary and may change depending on operational requirements. Officials emphasized that rapid budget approval is critical to sustaining US defense capabilities in multiple theaters of operation.
Following US strikes on Iran deploying Tomahawk cruise missiles, F-35 stealth fighters, and low-cost attack drones, the administration has intensified pressure on defense contractors to prioritize production over shareholder payouts. Raytheon has agreed with the Pentagon to eventually increase Tomahawk missile production to 1,000 units annually, with 57 missiles currently planned for purchase in 2026 at $1.3 million each. The push reflects urgent demand for replenishing strategic munitions.
President Trump signed an executive order earlier this year directing the Pentagon to identify contractors underperforming on contracts while distributing profits to shareholders. Companies flagged as underperforming will have 15 days to submit board-approved corrective plans. If these plans are deemed insufficient, the Pentagon may pursue enforcement actions, including contract termination. Analysts said this move signals a stronger federal stance on ensuring defense contractors meet national security priorities.
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The White House and Pentagon did not immediately respond to requests for comment, and RTX declined to comment. Trump, however, claimed in a social media post that the US maintains a “virtually unlimited supply” of munitions and can sustain prolonged military operations. The upcoming meeting is expected to focus on balancing urgent production needs with oversight, ensuring that US forces remain fully equipped for current and future engagements.