US Depletes Key Precision Missile Stockpiles in Five-Month Iran War

Reports indicate that the United States has nearly exhausted its global stockpiles of key long-range precision missiles, specifically the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) and the newer Precision Strike Missile (PrSM), during its five-month war with Iran. The depletion has raised concerns among military officials regarding readiness and deterrence against adversaries like Russia and China. Additionally, the US has expended roughly half of its Tomahawk cruise missiles and over 60% of its Patriot and THAAD air defense interceptors. While President Donald Trump and the Pentagon downplay the shortages, citing record-level domestic defense production, military commanders have reportedly adjusted tactics to conserve interceptors, and analysts warn that rebuilding stockpiles could take years.

// Background

The US-Iran war was launched jointly by the US and Israel in February 2026. Prior to the conflict, US stockpiles of ATACMS were already limited due to deliberations over transfers to Ukraine, where they were used to strike targets inside Russia. The US Army has been phasing out ATACMS in favor of the newer, longer-range Precision Strike Missile (PrSM). However, because the PrSM is a relatively new munition, its initial stockpiles were low. The rapid depletion of these standoff weapons presents a strategic dilemma, as it may force the US to rely on riskier, piloted bombing missions if large-scale offensives resume.

// Key Developments

• The US has used 'virtually all' of its ATACMS and PrSM stockpiles since the war with Iran began on February 28, 2026.
• Approximately 60% to 65% of Patriot interceptors and 38% to 50% of THAAD interceptors have been expended, according to CSIS estimates.
• The US has also burned through just under half of its global supply of ship-launched Tomahawk cruise missiles.
• To conserve dwindling interceptors, US commanders are reportedly choosing not to shoot down Iranian projectiles headed for unpopulated areas of US bases.
• The PrSM, a newer missile replacing the ATACMS, was used in combat for the first time on the war's opening day, including a controversial strike in Lamerd that killed 21 civilians.