Defense Department's inspector says U.S. is facing munition shortfall, spent $33 billion on war with Iran
September 15, 2026 / 2:20 AM EDT / CBS/AFP
TL;DR
- The Defense Department's inspector general reported a munition shortfall in the U.S. due to Operation Epic Fury in Iran.
- Operation Epic Fury cost an estimated $33.4 billion between February 28 and June 30, with $22.3 billion spent on munitions.
- The war resulted in strategic inventory shortfalls and highlighted industrial base bottlenecks for munitions resupply.
- American assets lost include four F-15s, one F-35, seven KC-135 tankers, and up to 30 MQ-9 Reapers.
- Iranian strikes damaged and destroyed hundreds of buildings and structures at U.S. bases in several Middle Eastern countries.
- Experts express concern about the U.S. ability to sustain munitions supply for a prolonged conflict, particularly against China.
- The Pentagon denies munition shortages, but the Defense Secretary is urging increased weapon manufacturing.