US Patriot interceptor stockpile diminished by 65% in Iran war, think tank estimates
Summary
A recent report from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) shows that the United States has used about 65% of its Patriot missile interceptors in the ongoing conflict with Iran since February 28. The stockpile of another advanced missile defense system called THAAD dropped by half during early fighting but has stayed stable since the ceasefire. President Donald Trump warned the U.S. would respond strongly to Iranian attacks.Key Facts
- Since the conflict with Iran began on February 28, U.S. Patriot missile interceptors have decreased by approximately 65%.
- As of the latest report, the U.S. stockpile has around 759 Patriot interceptors left.
- The U.S. produces about 183 Patriot interceptors per year, and it takes roughly 3.5 years for them to be delivered after a contract is signed.
- THAAD interceptors, which have longer range and higher altitude capability, dropped by about 50% during fighting from February 28 to April 8 but have remained stable since the ceasefire.
- The Pentagon is requesting $67 billion in extra funding from Congress to address shortages in missiles and other military supplies.
- The Biden administration sent three Patriot missile batteries to Ukraine under Presidential Drawdown Authority, which may have affected U.S. missile stockpiles.
- Pentagon officials say the military currently has enough resources to carry out the president’s orders.
- Experts warn that shortages of missile interceptors are a serious issue that will take time to fix.
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