The United States reportedly used up to 20% of its global stockpile of advanced THAAD missile interceptors to defend Israel during a recent 12-day conflict, according to U.S. media reports. The defense effort is estimated to have cost around $800 million and has strained global supplies of these missiles.
During the conflict, Israel and the U.S. launched strikes against Iranian nuclear facilities. In response, Iran retaliated with missile attacks, prompting the U.S. to deploy Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) systems to protect Israeli territory. Newsweek, citing Bulgarian Military News and Military Watch Magazine, reported that the U.S. used between 15% and 20% of its THAAD interceptor stockpile during this period.
Amid concerns over dwindling supplies, the U.S. has reportedly restocked interceptor missiles for the THAAD system deployed in Israel. According to The Wall Street Journal, this restocking effort took place in 2024 to ensure continued defense capabilities in the region.
The significant usage of these advanced missile interceptors underscores the intensity of the conflict and raises questions about the sustainability of missile defense resources in prolonged engagements.
