U.S. military forces could face a short-term shortage of ammunition in the event of a new large-scale conflict or an expansion of ongoing military operations. This is reported by CNN, citing sources in the Pentagon.
Source: Gazeta.UA
The most vulnerable category of weapons is said to be missile systems. According to analysts, significant expenditure occurred during recent combat operations, including against Iran, which has substantially reduced stocks of precision-guided missiles.
According to estimates, over the past weeks the United States may have used up to 45% of its precision strike missile stockpiles. It is also reported that more than half of THAAD interceptor missiles, nearly half of Patriot interceptors, around 30% of Tomahawk missiles, as well as reduced stocks of air-to-ground missiles and SM-3 and SM-6 systems have been used.
Analysts believe that replenishing such stockpiles could take four to five years. At the same time, they warn that current weapons levels may be insufficient in the event of a confrontation with a near-peer adversary, in particular China.
Experts estimate that this creates a “window of vulnerability” in the western Pacific, as replenishing and expanding arsenals will require several years.
The Pentagon, in turn, states that the situation is under control. Department representatives emphasize that the United States has sufficient resources to carry out all military tasks and protect national interests.
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