Trump insists US has 'virtually unlimited' ammunition for Iran operation
Trump denies ammunition shortages in Iran war, says production at record levels, while reports flag depleted precision missiles.
US President Donald Trump has pushed back against reports that American forces are running low on ammunition during the military operation in Iran, insisting that stockpiles are more than sufficient for current and future needs.
In a post on his social media platform, Trump dismissed suggestions of dwindling supplies as "100% wrong" and accused critics and media outlets of spreading such claims because they wanted the US to lose the war. He described those reporting on ammunition concerns as "treasonous SCUM," asserting that the country has "virtually unlimited amounts of Mid to High Grade Ammunition."
Trump further claimed that US munitions production is running at "levels never seen before" and that stockpiles are being built up for potential future contingencies. He said the US has temporarily prioritised domestic military needs over foreign weapons sales, but that exports to allies would resume "soon."
The President also drew a comparison with assistance provided to Ukraine under the previous administration, alleging that hundreds of billions of dollars were given without requiring European allies to pay their share. He said the US would seek repayment, though no specifics were offered.
His remarks come amid reporting that the US military has expended a significant portion of its global inventory of highly accurate, long-range missiles during the five-month conflict. Sources familiar with the data said the Army has used "virtually all" of its Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) and the newer Precision Strike Missile (PrSM). These systems, which cost over $1 million each, allow forces to strike targets from safe distances.
ATACMS has also been supplied to Ukraine for strikes inside Russia, while PrSM is a newer replacement with greater range. Production of PrSM was already limited, though large orders are placed for 2027. ATACMS is being phased out.
The depletion has raised concerns among officials about readiness against major adversaries like Russia and China. Military leaders have also warned about falling supplies of Patriot missile interceptors, which are critical for defending against ballistic missile attacks.
Recent reports suggested Trump decided against another major offensive in Iran partly due to advisers' warnings on weapons stockpiles, though a US official disputed this, citing pressure from Gulf states instead. One person familiar with the situation said the military remains capable of replenishing supplies, drawing from stockpiles positioned around the world.