The US administration has reassured the public that missile stockpiles remain sufficient despite extensive use of difficult-to-manufacture weapons during Operation Epic Fury and subsequent strikes. CBS News, citing unnamed sources, reported that much of the US global stockpile of long-range precision missiles has been used during the conflict.

The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) estimated that by the end of July 2026, the US had between 759 and 827 Patriot missiles left, down from 2,330 before the conflict began. CSIS also estimated that around 60% of terminal high altitude area defense (THAAD) missiles have been used. Mark Cancian, a retired Marine Corps colonel and senior adviser at CSIS, noted that while the US has supplied Ukraine with significant Patriot missiles since 2022, shrinking stocks may lead the Pentagon to retain more of them.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth dismissed reports of a stockpile shortage as a "manufactured story" during a 14 June appearance on CBS' Face the Nation. He also emphasized that the US is working quickly to ramp up weapons production.

Former President Trump confronted Hegseth last week over a possible weapons shortfall, according to the Washington Post citing unnamed sources. Trump denied any munitions shortage and warned on Truth Social that "the 'leakers' of these treasonous statements are being hunted down," adding that "long term jail sentences will be sought!"

Since becoming Defense Secretary, Hegseth has implemented strict controls limiting reporters' access to Pentagon information. The administration acknowledges that many modern weapons have long funding, order, production, and delivery timelines, complicating rapid replenishment once munitions are used.

Sources