US missile defenses heavily drained protecting Israel
NEWSWEEK.COM
'15-20%'
SUMMARY

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.

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