Learning from Russia: Iran's Tactics Against the US Are Working – Pentagon Projects Business as Usual
A New York Times investigation reveals that the US interceptor stockpile is running low while Iran refines its capabilities. In July, an Iranian missile penetrated a base in Jordan, killing 3 soldiers and wounding over 100. The Pentagon has used more than 1,500 Patriot interceptors, leaving fewer than 1,700. Iran has adopted Russian tactics, and the Pentagon denies any shortage.
A New York Times investigation reveals that the United States' interceptor stockpile is dwindling while Iran's combat capabilities are improving. Over five days in July, Iran launched waves of drones and missiles at three US bases in Jordan. On July 17, an Iranian missile breached defenses and hit troop quarters, killing three soldiers and wounding more than 100. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio admitted that nearly all missiles were intercepted, but one got through. Iran has adopted Russian tactics from Ukraine, combining cruise and ballistic missiles with drone swarms to overwhelm defense systems. The Pentagon has used more than 1,500 Patriot interceptors, leaving fewer than 1,700. For comparison, in 2025 the US produced only about 600 such missiles. In one day, US forces fired about 50 interceptors, each costing around $4 million. Despite this, the Pentagon projects business as usual: Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth claimed in April that Iran's missile program was 'effectively destroyed,' and a Pentagon spokesman called claims of a shortage 'fake news.' The fear of ammunition depletion carries a geopolitical cost: President Trump canceled planned strikes on Iran after warnings from Saudi Arabia and Gulf states. International inspectors estimate that components of the nuclear program have been moved to an underground facility about 100 meters deep.