The Pentagon is urging U.S. defense companies to increase production of weapons to replenish its diminished stockpile of munitions, including those depleted in the ongoing conflict with Iran.
Efforts to Replenish Stocks
Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell stated that the department is focused on boosting munitions acquisitions to provide the necessary weapons at the required pace. Deputy Defense Secretary Steve Feinberg wrote to industry leaders, asking them to submit plans for faster delivery schedules and increased production within 21 days.
The memo emphasizes the need to accelerate program schedules and expand production capacity. Recent fighting with Iran has used up more of the U.S. military’s already diminished stockpiles of advanced missile interceptors, potentially putting American troops at greater risk if hostilities resume.
Impact on National Security
The reduced inventories of Patriot and THAAD interceptors may force the U.S. and its Middle Eastern allies to take more risks to conserve air defenses. This could lead to fewer missiles being launched against incoming Iranian drones and missiles, increasing the chance of one getting through.
President Donald Trump has responded to public reports of a munitions shortage, stating that the U.S. has ‘massive amounts’ of munitions and that large amounts are being manufactured and shipped as needed.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
