US weapons shortages could leave America vulnerable to China, historian warns

Dr. Kobi Barda, a historian focusing on American politics, expressed concern on Friday about potential vulnerabilities in the United States due to military stockpile shortages. In an interview with 103FM, Barda stated, "If I were an American today, I would be very worried if tomorrow morning China decided to enter the conflict." He added, "There may currently be weakness in the United States."

Barda pointed to reported shortages in US military stockpiles and the time needed to replenish key weapons systems, such as Tomahawk missiles and defensive missiles. He noted that it could take at least four years to restock these systems, according to American media reports. Barda emphasized, "In principle, the feeling is that there is indeed some kind of shortage in the stockpiles, especially in light of the war, which is extremely intense in the Ukrainian arena."

Turning to Germany as an example of economic dependence on foreign countries, Barda cited Volkswagen's struggle with Chinese vehicles flooding its market. The company wanted to convert production lines to manufacture heavy trucks for missile-carrying capabilities but faced obstacles due to Qatar's significant ownership stake. Barda questioned the implications of being dependent on an Arab country like Qatar that controls production decisions, as Chinese products flood the market.

Barda also criticized the U.S. approach to Iran, arguing that Washington appears willing to avoid complications until after the midterm elections. He stated, "It appears that there is a desire at any cost to try to get through the coming period, at least until after the midterm elections. In this context, there is no other way to put it except 'embarrassing,' Iran is demanding to negotiate the division of highway robbery in the Strait of Hormuz with Oman alone, without a third party, and the Americans are willing to swallow it."