Israel's Interceptor Missile Supply Strain Amid Daily Conflicts

Israel's Interceptor Missile Supply Strain Amid Daily ConflictsStrain on Israel's Interceptor Missile Supply Amid Daily Attacks Israel has been engaged in conflict on multiple fronts for over a year, leading to a rapid depletion of its ammunition and missile supply. This is particularly true as it attempts to intercept the numerous projectiles launched daily from Hezbollah locations in Lebanon. Hezbollah reportedly has a stockpile of hundreds of thousands of rockets and drones of varying sizes. Israel's robust anti-air defense systems have been consistently engaging with incoming threats, often deploying hundreds of interceptors daily. This was particularly evident during the Iranian ballistic missile attack on October 1st. Historically, Israel has heavily depended on the United States for its supply of heavy artillery, bombs, and missiles. However, it now seems to be running low on interceptors amid daily conflicts. Reuters via Financial Times Report A recent report by the Financial Times warns that Israel's missile defense shield is being stretched thin, leading to increased reliance on Washington to fill the gaps. According to industry executives, former military officials, and analysts, Israel faces a potential shortage of interceptor missiles. This comes as it bolsters air defenses to protect the country from attacks by Iran and its proxies. The US is reportedly rushing to help close gaps in Israel’s protective shield. This includes the deployment of a Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) anti-missile battery, in anticipation of a retaliatory strike from Israel on Iran that could escalate regional tensions. Dana Stroul, an analyst and former US senior defense official, stated that Israel’s munitions issue is serious. She highlighted the limitations of the Pentagon's stockpiles, stating, "The US can’t continue supplying Ukraine and Israel at the same pace. We are reaching a tipping point." It has been previously noted that Israel likely cannot sustain wars on multiple fronts without consistent support and weapons shipments from the US. As conflicts escalate from Eastern Europe to the Middle East, with increasing involvement from Washington, the only apparent 'winners' are major US defense firms. Boaz Levy, CEO of Israel Aerospace Industries, which produces missile interceptors, stated that some of their lines are working around the clock to meet all their obligations. Palestinian media has noted that “supply constraints” and the demands of war have left the Israeli military relying on the US to fill gaps in protective shields. In recent days, the US announced it is deploying the anti-missile system THAAD to Israel as it continues to provide “ironclad” support. During two separate rounds of Iranian missile attacks on Israel in the past year, the US has deployed warships and fighter jets to assist Israel in shooting down incoming projectiles. However, systems like the Iron Dome, Arrow, and David's Sling remain crucial to Israel's daily defense, especially given Hezbollah's increased attacks on the north. The US has now sent the Army's THAAD missile defense system. It seems unlikely that the US will ever cut off Israel, given that both sides of the political aisle tend to be led by "Israel firsters," and the presidential race is no different. Bottom Line The strain on Israel's interceptor missile supply amid daily attacks is a concerning development. The country's reliance on the US for support and weapons shipments is becoming increasingly evident. As conflicts escalate from Eastern Europe to the Middle East, the question remains: How sustainable is this support in the long run? We'd love to hear your thoughts on this matter. Please share this article with your friends and sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.

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