Pentagon burning through billions as Iran clash drains critical US missile stockpiles

WorldPolitics
15 Sep 2026 • 9:46 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Pentagon burning through billions as Iran clash drains critical US missile stockpiles

  • A Department of Defense inspector general report revealed that President Donald Trump's Operation Epic Fury assault on Iran cost $33.4 billion in its first four months.
  • The military campaign spent $22.3 billion on munitions alone, resulting in strategic inventory shortfalls and industrial resupply bottlenecks.
  • Iranian retaliatory strikes destroyed four F-15E fighter jets and up to 30 MQ-9 Reaper drones, while damaging an F-35A jet and several other aircraft.
  • Defense experts warned that depleted long-range missile stockpiles could pose severe readiness risks in a long-term conflict with China.
  • The ongoing military operation has caused at least 18 U.S. military deaths, injured over 750 service members, and inflicted $184 million in damage on U.S. diplomatic premises.

IN FULL

Newswav Malaysia Best News App

Newswav is an online content aggregator and obtains its content from different online sources. The content in the app do not belong to Newswav nor do they reflect the opinions of Newswav and its staff. Your use of this app indicates your understanding and acceptance of this information.

Newswav Sdn. Bhd. (201701008480 (1222645-M)) 2026 All Rights Reserved