US used ‘virtually all’ long-range precision missiles during Iran war, sources say
Key Points:
- The U.S. Army has nearly depleted its stockpile of highly accurate long-range missiles, including Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) and Precision Strike Missiles (PrSM), during the ongoing five-month war with Iran, raising concerns about military readiness for future conflicts.
- These long-range munitions, costing over $1 million each, are crucial for striking targets from a safe distance and are considered vital for potential conflicts with adversaries like China and Russia.
- Despite the drawdown, U.S. Central Command has been able to replenish some missile supplies from global reserves, while defense companies are reportedly increasing production to unprecedented levels.
- Defensive weapon stocks, such as Patriot interceptors and THAAD missile interceptors, have also significantly diminished, with estimates showing a 65% and 38% reduction respectively since the conflict began.
- The reduction in missile stockpiles has sparked debate within the Trump administration about the sustainability of continued strikes on Iran, with some reports suggesting concerns about supply levels influenced military decisions, though official statements emphasize the U.S. military’s capability to conduct operations as needed.