The United States' munitions inventories, particularly defensive missile systems, were significantly depleted following a 39-day air campaign against Iran, according to a CSIS report. Key systems like the Standard Missile 3 (SM-3), Standard Missile 6 (SM-6), Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD), and Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3 MSE) saw approximately half or more of their pre-war stocks expended. This rapid consumption, with SM-3s potentially lasting only 2.5 months at the Iran war rate and Patriots 75 days, severely weakens U.S. preparedness for future conflicts, such as a potential contingency in Taiwan. Long delivery times for replacements, ranging from 3.5 to 5.5 years, exacerbate the issue. Furthermore, critical components like THAAD radars, with only 13 delivered to the U.S., present an even greater vulnerability due to longer replacement lead times. The reliance of 18 allied nations on systems like the Patriot further complicates allocation decisions, potentially driving allies to seek alternative suppliers.
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