Iran Blockade Costs Are Draining America’s Global Military Power

Summary

Becca Wasser discusses how US military munitions stockpiles, especially air defense interceptors and long-range standoff munitions, have been depleted by the Iran war. She notes that the defense industrial base is focused on replenishing US stockpiles, which will take years—CBO estimates about five years, and Tomahawk lead times exceed three years. This constrains US future operations and leaves fewer missiles for allies like Ukraine, implying sustained demand for the defense industrial base.

• US has drawn down preferred munitions in the Iran war.
• Air defense interceptors and long-range standoff munitions are particularly low.
• The defense industrial base is focused on replenishing US stockpiles.
• Replenishment may take about five years, per a CBO report.
• Tomahawk missile lead times exceed three years and could be longer.
• Fewer missiles are available for allies, including Ukraine's Patriot needs.
• US military operations are constrained by the shortages.