US THAAD interceptors depleted by up to 80%: CNN

CNN has reported that the United States has exhausted nearly 80 percent of its interceptors for the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile defense system. Citing two sources familiar with the matter, the outlet said that "the US military has burned through nearly four-fifths of its THAAD missile inventory compared to pre-war numbers and roughly half of its Patriot interceptors since the start of the war."

The dwindling munition reserves, along with concerns from Middle East allies about potential Iranian retaliation, reportedly convinced President Donald Trump to call off planned large-scale strikes against Iranian infrastructure, according to CNN. The report suggests that the depletion of these key defensive assets played a significant role in the decision to avoid further military escalation.

Pentagon and White House officials pushed back against concerns over inventory shortages, according to the report. They did not provide specific numbers but sought to reassure that the military's defensive capabilities remain adequate.

The THAAD system is a critical component of the US missile defense architecture, designed to intercept short, medium, and intermediate-range ballistic missiles. The Patriot system is another key defensive asset used to counter tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and aircraft.

The report comes amid heightened tensions between the US and Iran, with both sides having engaged in military exchanges earlier this year. The US has maintained a significant military presence in the Middle East, including THAAD and Patriot batteries, to protect its forces and allies.

According to Mehr News Agency, which cited the CNN report, the depletion of these interceptors raises questions about the sustainability of US missile defense capabilities in the region. The report also highlights the logistical challenges of maintaining such systems during prolonged conflicts.

As of now, neither the Pentagon nor the White House has issued an official statement beyond the pushback mentioned in the CNN report. The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected as the US evaluates its military posture in the region.