Nearly 80% of interceptors for key US missile defense system depleted, sources say

The United States military is facing critically low stockpiles of interceptors for its key missile defense systems, with senior commanders reportedly raising alarms about the “dangerously low” levels of munitions. Sources indicate that nearly 80% of the interceptors for the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system and approximately half of the Patriot interceptors have been depleted since the onset of the war with Iran. This significant drawdown also extends to other long-range precision missiles, including Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) and Precision Strike Missiles.

The extensive use of these interceptors is primarily attributed to the ongoing conflict with Iran, where they have been utilized to defend US forces and partner nations against missile and drone attacks. Analysts from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) estimate that before the war, the US held around 2,200 Patriot missiles and 452 THAAD interceptors. The swift expenditure of these critical assets is raising concerns about the military's readiness for potential future conflicts with adversaries like China or Russia, and has reportedly influenced presidential decisions regarding military operations.

Efforts to replenish these depleted stockpiles are challenged by slow production rates, with experts suggesting it could take several years to restore inventories to pre-war levels. The shortage is also a worry for Gulf allies who rely on US-supplied air defense systems, as it could hinder their ability to counter potential Iranian retaliation.