US stockpile of Patriot interceptors diminished by some 65%, think tank estimates

Key Points:

• A CSIS report reveals that U.S. stockpiles of Patriot missile interceptors have decreased by approximately 65% since combat with Iran began on Feb. 28, with only about 759 of the highest-end missiles remaining in inventory.
• The THAAD interceptor stockpile, which had dropped by half during initial combat, has stabilized since the ceasefire, but THAAD missiles remain difficult to replace due to long production times.
• The U.S. produces 183 Patriot interceptors annually, with a delivery timeline of roughly 3.5 years, contributing to concerns about replenishing depleted missile inventories amid ongoing conflict.
• The Pentagon is requesting $67 billion in supplemental funding to address munitions shortfalls, with officials asserting that the military currently has sufficient capabilities to execute operations despite inventory challenges.
• Military leaders, including Gen. Kevin Schneider, are considering scaling back exercises in the Pacific to prioritize resources for the Central Command region, while experts warn that missile shortages could embolden adversaries like China.