Oct 02, Kathmandu - The U.S. Department of Defense has announced a $24.4 billion contract with Raytheon to increase production of SM-6 missiles and replenish weapons used in the war against Iran.

The five-year agreement includes options for two additional years. The Pentagon described the SM-6 as a key missile for air defense and surface strikes, saying the long-term deal would help the defense industry plan to expand its workforce and supply chain.

Last month, the Defense Department’s inspector general said weapons spending during “Operation Epic Fury” against Iran had reduced strategic stockpiles and exposed challenges in the industrial capacity needed to replenish them. The Congressional Budget Office also warned in a September 15 report that the United States could face limited interceptor-missile supplies for several years.

Raytheon says the SM-6 has been successfully deployed from U.S. Navy ships and land-based launch systems. Company president Phil Jasper said Raytheon is continuing to invest in its operations and production facilities to increase output.

Meanwhile, more than seven months after U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran began, Tehran is reportedly still maintaining control over the Strait of Hormuz.

According to The Wall Street Journal, President Donald Trump has told allies he expects the United States to resume bombing Iran by the end of November.