The war in Iran has cost the United States not only billions of dollars but also a significant share of its most advanced precision munitions, according to a new analysis by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS).
Over 39 days of fighting, US forces fired thousands of cruise missiles and air defense interceptors—far exceeding initial estimates. Among the most heavily drawn-down systems are key pillars of America’s missile defense architecture, including Tomahawk cruise missile, Patriot missile system, THAAD missile system, as well as SM-3 missile and SM-6 missile—strategic assets designed for global, not single-theater, operations.
The financial toll underscores the scale of expenditure. A single Tomahawk cruise missile costs roughly $2.6 million, while SM-3 missile interceptors reach $28.7 million each. SM-6 missile missiles cost about $5.3 million, THAAD missile system interceptors $15.5 million, and Patriot missile system rounds approximately $3.9 million. Multiplied across thousands of launches, the total runs into billions within weeks.
The report estimates that more than 850 Tomahawk cruise missiles were used, alongside thousands of Patriot interceptors. However, the concern extends beyond consumption rates to replenishment capacity. For several systems, production timelines can stretch up to four years from order to delivery.
Approximate estimates of percentages of U.S. munitions expended in Iran war, per @CNN :
— John M. Donnelly (@johnmdonnelly) April 21, 2026
50% THAAD interceptors
50% Patriot interceptors
45% Precision Strike Missiles
30% Tomahawk missiles
20% Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles
20% Standard Missiles (SM-3 and SM-6) https://t.co/1A9TH0zpr5
While the study assesses that current stockpiles remain sufficient for ongoing operations, it warns of a more troubling outlook. In the event of another major conflict—particularly against a near-peer competitor such as China—US reserves could fall to dangerously low levels. Notably, stockpiles were already considered insufficient prior to the Iran war, a shortfall now further exacerbated.
The report also highlights a growing reliance on lower-cost alternatives, including JDAM kits and drone-based systems. Yet these options come with clear limitations in range, precision, and operational flexibility compared to high-end missile and interception systems.
Compounding the challenge is sustained demand from US allies, including Ukraine and partners across the Middle East, who depend on the same supply chains. As a result, Washington faces the dual burden of replenishing its own depleted stocks while continuing to meet international commitments under already strained production capacity, according to the analysis.
Source: Agencies