The Inspector General of the US Department of Defense has stated that the war with Iran has caused shortages in US ammunition stocks and difficulties in supplying them, contrary to statements by President Donald Trump.
According to the independent watchdog's report, the United States spent more than $22 billion on ammunition from February to June, creating "strategic inventory shortages."
The report does not specify the exact amount of ammunition remaining in US stockpiles, but highlights inventory shortages and "blockages in the industrial base" that are preventing resupply at the necessary speed.
During the conflict, US forces have used large quantities of ammunition, including long-range weapons, as well as air and missile defense systems to intercept Iranian attacks.
A Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) assessment in late July showed that stockpiles of several interceptor missiles, including Patriot and THAAD systems, had been significantly reduced, in some cases by more than half.
The inspector general's report says the Department of Defense is working to improve procurement processes and shorten production times, with the goal of addressing shortages and responding more quickly in the event of an emergency.
However, the White House has disputed this assessment. Spokeswoman Anna Kelly stated that the US military has “more than enough” ammunition and reserves to meet the President’s strategic objectives.
Trump has also repeatedly denied that the US is facing shortages. He has dismissed reports of stockpile problems as false, and in a post on Truth Social on September 3rd, he claimed that the United States has “virtually unlimited” amounts of ammunition.
The inspector general's report also estimates that equipment losses during the war totaled $3.7 billion, while another $7.4 billion was spent on other costs. In total, the US spent $33.4 billion on the war from February 28 to June 30.
Meanwhile, the Congressional Budget Office has estimated the total cost of the conflict at around $38 billion, including ammunition and equipment lost or replaced, as well as additional flight and fuel costs.
According to the report, the losses of American equipment include four F-15E fighter jets, one F-35, and 30 MQ-9 drones, destroyed under various circumstances.
Meanwhile, a Reuters/Ipsos poll released in early September showed that only 23% of Americans believe the US is in a stronger position towards Iran compared to the period before the start of hostilities.
