US Warns Allies of Up to 5-Year Delays in Key Missile Deliveries

The United States has warned European allies to expect delays of up to five years in receiving key weapons systems, including Tomahawk cruise missiles and Typhon launchers, as the country works to restore arsenals depleted during the Iran war. Bloomberg and Ukrainian media reported the development on Saturday.

Iran War Depleted US Stocks

Senior officials said several European nations have been told that deliveries of key missile systems and air defense weapons will be delayed because US armed forces used up their own arsenal in the war against Iran that began on February 28. The US used over half of its advanced Patriot interceptors in Iran, a third of Tomahawk missiles, and nearly half of precision strike and THAAD missiles. The Congressional Budget Office stated that since June 2025, the US has likely used up to two-thirds of its ballistic missile defense interceptors.

Ukraine's Patriot Supplies Hit

The Pentagon's decision to prioritize rebuilding its own stocks is complicating Ukraine's efforts to secure additional Patriot air defense interceptors ahead of an expected difficult winter. The Patriot supply question is set to be a central issue at UN General Assembly meetings in New York next week.

Global Impact

The shortfall extends beyond the US and Europe: in April, the US told Japan that Tomahawk deliveries would be delayed by up to two years. Saudi Arabia has also urged allies including the US to provide military support against Houthi attacks in Yemen. Manufacturer Raytheon is unlikely to fulfill new European orders within five years due to production constraints. The US said it continues to supply weapons already purchased by European allies for Ukraine through NATO and EU initiatives.