The US military’s weapons stockpiles, including its inventory of crucial air defense missiles, remain severely depleted following a major flare up of the war with Iran in recent weeks. This shortage could impact the US’ ability to engage on other fronts.

Depleted Stockpiles

According to a report by the Center for Strategic and International Studies, fewer than 827 Patriot interceptors remain in US stockpiles, and fewer than 278 THAAD ballistic missile interceptors are left. The US military has fired more than 60% of its key Patriot and THAAD interceptors during the war with Iran.

President Donald Trump expressed his desire to replenish the stockpiles, but the president held that the inventories are ‘in very good shape.’ However, Gen. Dan Caine, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told senators that without additional funding, the Pentagon will not get the munitions it needs.

Consequences of the Shortage

The shortage of missiles could force the US and its coalition partners to take more risks with interceptions. There are no good alternatives to Patriot and THAAD for ballistic missile defense. The US military’s primary means of taking down incoming enemy ballistic missiles are severely depleted.

Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.