Critical Missile Shortage: Pentagon Sounds Alarm Over Depleted Patriot Stockpile as Ukraine Aid Hangs in the Balance
A Missile Gap the Pentagon Didn’t See Coming
In a stunning revelation that raises urgent national security concerns, the U.S. Department of Defense is now operating with just 25% of the Patriot missile interceptors it requires to meet its global military plans.
The Patriot system, a cornerstone of U.S. air defense against ballistic threats, has been severely depleted following high-intensity deployments in the Middle East and the recent confrontation with Iran.
This shortage forced the Trump administration to pause key munitions transfers to Ukraine, even as Kyiv faces its heaviest Russian aerial assault to date.
“The stockpiles are below operational floors. We’re forced to choose between defending allies or preparing for the next war,” said one defense official familiar with inter...