Pete Hegseth says it's a "manufactured story" that U.S. faces munitions stockpile shortage
CBS News • • nation
Key Points:
- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth dismissed claims of a U.S. munitions stockpile crisis, calling such reports "manufactured" and asserting that stockpiles are strong and improving.
- Earlier in April, Hegseth testified that replenishing munitions used in the Iran war could take "months and years," noting production speed varies by weapon system and that new manufacturing plants are being built.
- Despite concerns from regional officials about low interceptor supplies in Gulf Arab states, Pentagon leaders maintain there are sufficient precision munitions for current defense needs.
- Democratic Senator Mark Kelly acknowledged a munitions issue due to high usage in recent conflicts, emphasizing the need for careful management of the finite supply.
- Hegseth highlighted increased munitions production efforts under the current administration, including co-production opportunities and efforts to accelerate industry output amid ongoing military demands.
