US has used ‘virtually all’ of its long-range precision missiles in Iran war, sources say

The United States has reportedly used nearly all of its long-range precision missile stockpiles in its ongoing conflict with Iran, according to three individuals familiar with the data. These highly accurate weapons, primarily the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) and the newer Precision Strike Missile (PrSM), have been deployed extensively over the past five months of warfare. This revelation raises questions about the U.S. military's preparedness for potential future engagements, particularly given the high cost and strategic importance of these systems. The conflict began in February when President Donald Trump joined forces with Israel against Iran, a move he predicted would be brief. However, the prolonged nature of the war has led to the near-depletion of critical missile reserves. According to the sources, the U.S. Army has exhausted most of its supply of these long-range precision-guided weapons, which are essential for conducting accurate strikes from a secure distance. The ATACMS and PrSM are vital components of the U.S. military's arsenal, enabling targeted attacks without putting troops in direct danger. The ATACMS, in particular, have been instrumental in the war in Ukraine, providing Ukrainian forces with the capability to strike Russian positions deep within their territory. The PrSM represents the next evolution in this technology, offering greater range and accuracy than its predecessor. Analysts suggest that these weapons would play a crucial role in any potential confrontation with China due to their strategic value and effectiveness. Despite the significance of these developments, the exact number of remaining ATACMS and PrSM missiles has not been disclosed by the sources. Their reluctance to provide specific figures underscores the sensitivity surrounding the issue and highlights the potential implications for national defense strategy. The depletion of such resources could affect the U.S.'s ability to respond effectively to emerging threats, especially in regions where long-range precision strikes are deemed necessary. The use of these missiles in the Iran conflict has drawn attention to their dual utility, both in regional disputes and in broader geopolitical scenarios. With the ATACMS already playing a pivotal role in supporting allies in Europe, the shift in focus towards the Middle East has placed additional strain on existing supplies. As the PrSM is intended to replace the ATACMS, the transition period may create vulnerabilities if the new system does not become fully operational in time. Military planners and defense officials are likely evaluating the current situation to determine whether immediate replenishment efforts are needed. Given the high cost per unit, exceeding $1 million, the financial burden of restocking these weapons could be substantial. Additionally, the production timelines for both ATACMS and PrSM may influence the availability of these assets in the near term. As the conflict continues, the U.S. military faces the challenge of maintaining operational readiness while managing resource allocation. The reliance on long-range precision missiles has underscored their importance in modern warfare, where minimizing collateral damage and ensuring surgical strikes are paramount. The extent to which these capabilities can be sustained in the face of ongoing hostilities remains a pressing concern for defense strategists.