Iran War Depletes U.S. Munitions, Raising Fears of Russian and Chinese Moves

The war began in late February 2026 with U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites and military targets under Operation Epic Fury, escalating into heavy use of Tomahawks, JASSM-ER missiles, and defenses like Patriots and THAAD.

By May, the U.S. had burned through half its long-range stealth missiles and ten times its yearly Tomahawk buys, with think tanks estimating replenishment could drag to 2029 or 2030.

Senior officials fear Putin and Xi are eyeing these gaps to ramp up in Ukraine or Taiwan, while President Trump insists stockpiles remain ample and Rep. Thomas Massie blasts the conflict for weakening defenses and spiking prices.