Extensive US use of weapons and ammunition in the war with Iran has created major shortages in American stockpiles, raising concerns about Washington’s capacity to deter or respond to potential threats from China and Russia, The Wall Street Journal reported, citing US officials. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth oversaw the dispatch of large quantities of weapons and ammunition to the Middle East through the Pentagon’s long-standing “orders book” process.

According to the report, stocks of PAC-3 Patriot air-defense missile interceptors held by US forces in Europe and ATACMS missiles have been assessed as falling below critical levels. Although direct attacks between the United States and Iran have decreased significantly in recent weeks, officials indicated that the depletion has raised questions over US readiness beyond the Middle East.

Replenishing the inventories could take years, the report said. Rebuilding supplies would require obtaining weapons from countries including Japan, South Korea and Germany, as well as producing new systems. US officials fear shortages could hinder the rapid delivery of necessary missiles and defense systems during a possible Taiwan crisis involving China or a conflict with Russia in Europe.