Credited from: SCMP
The U.S. Army has reportedly used up a substantial portion of its long-range precision missile stockpile in the ongoing conflict with Iran, prompting worries about the military's capacity to adequately prepare for future conflicts, including with nations like China and Russia. The weapons chiefly involved are the Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) and Precision Strike Missiles (PrSM), which are instrumental in conducting precise strikes from a safe distance (Reuters, SCMP, Channel News Asia, India Times, Middle East Eye, CBS News).
According to multiple sources, the U.S. has utilized "virtually all" of its long-range missiles, raising critical questions regarding its preparedness for future military engagements. President Trump, after initiating the conflict in February, had anticipated a brief campaign. However, as the confrontation extends, there are growing concerns about the implications of depleting missile supplies for U.S. deterrence capabilities against adversaries (Reuters, SCMP, Channel News Asia, India Times, Middle East Eye, CBS News).
The White House has publicly stated that the U.S. possesses "far more munitions than anyone in the world," but military analysts caution that the ongoing depletion of stocks could hinder future operations. Reports indicate that not only have long-range precision missiles been used extensively, but there has also been a notable drawdown of defensive systems, particularly Patriot interceptors, with estimates suggesting around 65% of the stockpile has been expended (Reuters, SCMP, Channel News Asia, India Times, Middle East Eye, CBS News).
As concerns about stockpile adequacy grow, reports indicate that the Pentagon is struggling to maintain military readiness amid the prolonged engagements. Efforts to increase production capabilities for missiles are underway, with defense companies such as Lockheed Martin and Raytheon working to replenish supplies for future operations. However, analysts remain skeptical that replenishment can keep pace with the current depletion rates (Reuters, SCMP, Channel News Asia, India Times, Middle East Eye, CBS News).