WANA (Sep 18) – Pentagon budget documents reveal that the United States fired nearly half a billion dollars’ worth of advanced missiles in defense of Israel during the June conflict with Iran and is now seeking emergency funding to replace them.

 

According to reports citing the documents, including from The Times of Israel, War Zone, and Business Insider, the U.S. launched interceptor missiles valued at approximately $500 million during the 12-day war to protect Israel.

 

One document requests $498.265 million in emergency funding to replace an unspecified number of advanced THAAD defense system missiles “used in support of Israel.” Congressional approval is required for the funding request.

 

Reports indicate that the U.S. fired between 100 and 150 THAAD missiles during Israel’s operations in Iran to counter Iranian missile attacks.

 

Earlier, CNN cited two sources reporting that roughly a quarter of the U.S.’s advanced THAAD missile stockpile was expended during the Israel-Iran conflict.

 

This level of consumption far exceeded production rates and raised concerns about America’s global air defense capacity.

An Iranian missile is seen during the annual military parade in Tehran, Iran, September 22, 2023. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)

An Iranian missile is seen during the annual military parade in Tehran, Iran, September 22, 2023. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)