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The Pentagon has ordered U.S. defense contractors to dramatically accelerate weapons production and deliveries after the war with Iran exposed critical shortages in key munitions, according to the report.
A Defense Department memo stated that Deputy Defense Secretary Steve Feinberg told industry executives on Wednesday that they have no more than 21 days to present detailed plans outlining how they will increase manufacturing capacity and move critical weapons to the military on much faster timelines, The Washington Post reported.
The directive applies to capabilities considered essential to U.S. defense needs, urging contractors to adopt "significantly faster, more aggressive delivery schedules and/or increased production" as the Pentagon seeks to replenish weapons stockpiles depleted during the Iran war.
The memo also makes clear that the Defense Department expects a major shift in how quickly defense firms design, build and deliver weapons.
"Years-long development cycles are not acceptable," Feinberg wrote, calling on companies to "dramatically accelerate" production schedules and expand manufacturing capacity.
The directive signals a broader effort by the Pentagon to shorten procurement timelines and replenish stockpiles that have come under pressure during the conflict with Iran, the report suggested.
The production push comes as growing concerns over U.S. weapons stockpiles have surfaced following months of fighting with Iran.
Reports have pointed to shortages of key missile interceptors and precision-guided munitions, raising questions about the Pentagon's ability to sustain a prolonged military campaign while maintaining readiness for other potential conflicts.
On Thursday, President Donald Trump rejected reports that he is unhappy with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over depleted stocks of American missile interceptors, insisting the United States has ample supplies and accusing media outlets of spreading false information.
Shortages of interceptor missiles were among the key issues discussed by Trump and his senior advisers before the administration decided against expanding its military campaign against Iran late last month, the report suggested.
It added that concerns over dwindling inventories limited Washington's military options and contributed to the decision to hold back from a broader escalation before Trump announced that the U.S. had halted its renewed strikes following 17 days of mutual strikes with Iran.
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