The United States has utilized nearly its entire global stockpile of long-range precision missiles during the ongoing war with Iran, according to two sources familiar with the situation. The inventory of Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) and Precision Strike Missiles has been virtually exhausted as a result of operations conducted during the conflict, which has been referred to as Operation Epic Fury.
The rapid expenditure of these munitions has created a significant pressure point within the administration, as the U.S. is unable to sustain the high rate of usage seen in the early stages of the war. Beyond long-range missiles, officials are particularly concerned about the dwindling counts of Patriot and Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) interceptors, which are currently being consumed at a pace that exceeds industrial replacement capabilities.
Data from a July report by the Center for Strategic and International Studies highlights the severity of the supply drain. Before the conflict, the U.S. possessed 2,330 Patriot interceptors, a number that fell to between 759 and 827 by the end of July. Similarly, the inventory of THAAD interceptors dropped from 452 before the war to between 234 and 278 as of July 27. Projections from the same report suggest it could take until mid-2029 to restore these stocks to pre-war levels.
Despite these reports, Pentagon leadership maintains that the military remains fully capable. Chief Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell stated that the U.S. military is the most powerful in the world and possesses the necessary capabilities to execute operations at the President's choosing, ensuring the protection of national interests. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth previously dismissed reports of supply shortages on June 14, labeling them a manufactured media narrative and asserting that stockpiles are strong.
Currently, U.S. strikes on Iran remain paused to facilitate ongoing diplomatic efforts regarding the Strait of Hormuz. However, President Trump has warned that large-scale attacks may resume if U.S. terms are not met, stating in the Oval Office on Monday that he intends to provide every possible chance for diplomacy before considering further military action.
