U.S. Running out of THAAD Interceptors, But Has Sufficient Stock of Bombs

A U.S. congressional report indicates that the stockpile of THAAD ballistic missile interceptors has been reduced due to ongoing operational use, raising concerns about sustainability in extended conflicts.

The document states that the rate of interceptor use during Operation Legendary Fury has “further depleted the limited stockpile,” highlighting pressure on missile defense resources. Each THAAD interceptor is estimated to cost between $12 million and $15 million, with replenishment timelines ranging from three to eight years due to production constraints.

Data cited in the report shows that THAAD systems achieved interception rates of around 90% against Iranian ballistic missiles and drones during deployments in the Middle East, including operations linked to the United Arab Emirates. This performance level is described as comparable to the Arrow 3 system, jointly developed by the U.S. and Israel.

The report also notes that during Operation Kalavy in June, THAAD accounted for roughly half of the interceptions used to defend Israeli airspace. A total of 92 interceptions were carried out from an estimated stockpile of 632 interceptors, further reducing available inventory.

Additional analysis from the Foreign Policy Research Institute highlights the scale of U.S. military activity during the opening phase of Operation Fury. In the first four days, U.S. forces used 5,197 weapons and munitions across 35 categories, with total costs estimated between $10 billion and $16 billion.

Despite the strain on interceptor inventories, the report states that there is no immediate shortage of bombs. It notes that while bombing operations can continue, limitations are emerging in critical supporting systems such as interceptors, long-range strike weapons, and sensor networks.

The assessment warns that sustained use of precision munitions and defensive interceptors could affect readiness for future conflicts, stating that ongoing operations risk reducing preparedness for potential large-scale scenarios in other regions.