Is US running short of weapons amid Iran war? Pentagon report flags missile shortfalls, supply bottlenecks

The Pentagon's latest report on the ongoing war in West Asia has revealed strategic inventory shortfalls and industrial base bottlenecks due to the intensive use of US munitions. Advanced missiles and defensive interceptors are facing shortages, with defense experts estimating it could take three years for US military contractors to replenish stocks to pre-war levels.

The conflict has cost Washington an estimated $33.4 billion so far, including $22.3 billion on weapons and ammunition. Another $7.4 billion has been spent on conflict-related costs, while $3.7 billion in military equipment was lost. The attacks have damaged or destroyed hundreds of US military facilities in countries including Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Oman, and Jordan, prompting US Central Command to reroute supply lines through alternative locations.

The loss of dozens of American aircraft and drones, valued at roughly $900 million, has added pressure on US military equipment stocks. The conflict has also resulted in significant damage to US diplomatic infrastructure, with an estimated $184 million in property damage reported. Despite inventory challenges, the US has continued to approve defense sales to regional partners totaling over $44 billion.