Israel Faces Strain on Missile Defence Systems as Interceptor Stocks Reportedly Dwindle Amid Regional Conflict
JERUSALEM: Israel’s supply of ballistic missile interceptors has reportedly fallen to “double digits” following weeks of sustained military exchanges involving Iran and allied regional groups, according to a media report citing US and defense industry sources.
A US administration official told Drop Site News that Israeli forces are now being forced to “pick and choose what they shoot down,” reflecting growing pressure on air defense systems.
A White House spokesperson referred questions about interceptor stocks to the Israeli military, which acknowledged the inquiry but said it was still reviewing the situation.
The reported shortage has raised concerns about Israel’s ability to maintain its interception rate against incoming ballistic missiles from Iran and allied forces in the region.
A study by the London-based Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) suggested that Israel has already used a significant portion of its Arrow 2, Arrow 3, and THAAD interceptor inventories. The report estimated that by late March, 122 of 150 Arrow interceptors and 22 of 48 THAAD missiles had been expended.
These systems are costly and slow to replace, with Arrow interceptors estimated at $2–3 million each and THAAD missiles costing up to $12 million per unit.
Analysts say that in many cases, multiple interceptors are required to neutralize a single incoming ballistic missile, further straining supply levels.
The report also claims Iran has adapted its missile strategy to pressure Israeli air defenses, including using older missile models early in the conflict to deplete interceptor stocks before deploying more advanced systems.
Independent verification of damage inside Israeli-occupied territory remains limited due to strict military censorship.
However, a separate analysis cited by financial and security research groups suggested that missile penetration rates have increased significantly over time, potentially due to the use of more complex warhead systems.
Israel has reportedly responded by accelerating production of Arrow interceptors while also increasing reliance on US naval missile defense systems deployed in the region.
US forces, including Aegis-equipped destroyers, are also said to have expended hundreds of interceptors in regional defense operations, adding strain to American stockpiles.
The report further notes that prolonged missile activity has affected broader US defense planning, including munitions originally intended for other strategic theaters.
Meanwhile, Iran is reported to have launched hundreds of ballistic missiles during recent escalations, while its mobile launch systems and underground facilities have remained difficult to target.
The entry of allied regional armed groups into the wider conflict has further complicated Israel’s air defense challenges.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has pledged to increase interceptor production while downplaying concerns over shortages.
The situation comes amid continued regional tensions following a US-Israel military campaign against Iran earlier this year, with diplomatic efforts reportedly underway to establish a ceasefire framework through third-party mediation.