The US Army has utilized a significant portion of its high-precision long-range missile stockpiles during the five-month war with Iran, raising concerns about the country’s readiness for potential future conflicts. This information comes from three sources familiar with the matter who spoke on condition of anonymity.
This primarily involves the Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) and Precision Strike Missile (PrSM). According to two sources, the stockpiles of these missile types are nearly depleted. Previously, details regarding such a substantial reduction in ATACMS and PrSM stockpiles had not been disclosed.
These long-range munitions are a vital component of the American arsenal, enabling high-precision strikes over great distances. The ATACMS missiles supplied by the US have played a crucial role in the war in Ukraine, allowing Ukrainian forces to target locations within Russian territory. The PrSM represents a newer generation of missiles that is gradually intended to replace the ATACMS due to its extended range and advanced features. Analysts note that this weapon, which costs over $1 million per unit, will also be critically important in the event of a potential conflict with China.
Concerns over stockpile reduction
President Donald Trump initiated the war with Iran alongside Israel in February, anticipating it would be short-lived. However, the prolonged conflict has raised concerns that the depletion of missile stockpiles could undermine the US’s ability to deter other potential adversaries, including Russia and China.
A fourth source familiar with the situation reported that the US Central Command (CENTCOM), which oversees operations in the Middle East, has nearly exhausted its ground missile stockpiles that were available at the onset of the war. These stockpiles were later partially replenished from US military reserves in other regions.
In response to a request for comment, the White House issued a statement from Donald Trump, who emphasized that the US possesses “far more ammunition than anyone in the world” and “far more than we need.” He noted that American defense companies are currently producing record quantities of ammunition and are actively expanding their production capabilities.
Analysts agree that the production of certain weapon types, including artillery shells and various missiles, has reached unprecedented levels. However, they caution that even this may not suffice in the event of a prolonged conflict.
Lockheed Martin, which manufactures ATACMS, PrSM, and the THAAD missile defense system, did not respond to a request for comment regarding Trump’s statements or stockpile levels. Raytheon, the producer of Tomahawk missiles and Patriot interceptors, also did not provide any comments.
Main Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell stated: “The American military is the most powerful in the world and has everything necessary to accomplish missions at the time and place determined by the president. We successfully conduct operations in all combatant commands while maintaining a sufficient arsenal to protect our citizens and interests.”
Source: South China Morning Post
