US missile defenses heavily drained protecting Israel

During the recent Israel-Iran conflict, the U.S. used 15-20% of its THAAD missile interceptor stockpile, costing over $800 million. Iran retaliated with missile strikes on Israeli cities, utilizing various missile types, including the hypersonic Fattah-1. The U.S. restocked THAAD interceptors in 2024 due to concerns about shortages, with costs rising to $27 million each when including research and development.

The THAAD system, capable of intercepting intermediate-range missiles, covers a wider area than the Patriot system. In some incidents, THAAD failed to intercept Houthi missiles. The U.S. also employed the Patriot system and naval forces to assist Israel. Amid escalating tensions in 2024, the Pentagon sent advanced batteries and troops to Israel as Iran launched numerous ballistic missiles.