US depletes 80% of THAAD interceptors in Iran war, sources say

The US military has consumed nearly 80% of its THAAD interceptors and about half of its Patriot interceptors since the war with Iran began on February 28, according to multiple sources cited by CNN. Senior military officials warn that Pentagon ammunition reserves are "dangerously low," raising concerns about the US ability to respond to new conflicts Source: CNN. The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) estimates the US had roughly 2,200 Patriot and 452 THAAD missiles before the war Source: CNN.

Discrepancies

Sources differ on exact depletion figures. CNN reports nearly 80% of THAAD and half of Patriots consumed Source: CNN, while a CSIS analysis cited by El Español puts the figures at 65% of Patriots and 38% of THAAD, leaving fewer than 1,000 Patriots and between 234 and 278 THAADs Source: El Español. The Pentagon has not officially confirmed either estimate Source: El Español.

Strategic concerns

Gulf countries, which rely on US air defense systems, have expressed worry that shortages could hamper their ability to repel Iranian retaliation if Trump escalates Source: CNN. The depletion has also influenced military advice; Trump canceled planned attacks over the weekend after advisors and Gulf allies raised concerns about reprisals Source: CNN.

Replenishment efforts

The Pentagon has awarded Lockheed Martin a contract worth up to $58.62 billion to triple production of PAC-3 MSE missiles by 2030 Source: El Español. However, rebuilding inventories will take years, leaving a window of vulnerability Source: El Español. Meanwhile, negotiations over the Strait of Hormuz remain stalled; Iran denies talks with the US, saying it only discusses with Oman Source: El Día.