Russian ballistic attacks on Ukraine have surged as its stock of Patriot interceptor missiles almost runs dry. CNN's Nick Paton Walsh explains why the US-made system is so critical as he gets the first media access to Patriot launchers sitting in a quiet field with empty canisters.
Screengrab Social Media/X by Diana Zapata • News Writer /Editorial Specialist Published August 15, 2026 A massive explosion ripped through an ammunition manufacturing facility near Rome, Italy, sending a towering blast into the sky and [...]
AI:A massive explosion has struck an ammunition manufacturing facility located near Rome, Italy, directly impacting a critical node within the logistics network used to supply artillery shells to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This kinetic disruption at a key production site underscores the growing vulnerability of European military supply chains and highlights the escalating risks faced by domestic industrial targets as they remain integral to foreign warfare efforts.Open
A history lesson from the First World War shows how munition shortages are less of a problem than military groupthink. The post The Pentagon’s ‘Missile Crisis’ Distracts From Deeper Problems appeared first on The American Conservative .
Foreign Affairs The Pentagon’s ‘Missile Crisis’ Distracts From Deeper Problems A history lesson from the First World War shows how munition shortages are less of a problem than military groupthink. Recent headlines about U.S. weapons in the Persian Gulf are somewhere between ominous and confusing. Are we running low? Or are we being manipulated? Reuters , August 4: “US has used ‘virtually all’ of its long-range precision missiles during Iran war.” CNN , same day: “Nearly 80% of interceptors for a key missile defense system depleted.” And on Fox News, Jennifer Griffin reported, “A growing reality after months…Open
AI:The Pentagon is currently embroiled in a chaotic "missile crisis" amidst the ongoing war with Iran, as conflicting reports emerge regarding severe shortages of long-range precision missiles and interceptors. While media outlets claim American stockpiles are nearing depletion—triggering reported clashes between President Trump and Secretary of War Hegseth—the White House has dismissed these claims as treasonous leaks and "fake news," maintaining that firepower remains abundant. Beyond the debate over munitions, there is significant internal political maneuvering involving Vice President J.D. Vance and military leadership seeking "off-ramps" from combat. Drawing parallels to the munitions crises of World War I, the situation highlights…Open
While the Pentagon disputes critical munitions supply concerns, it is working to significantly boost production of the high-end systems and seek out mass produced alternatives.
‘Building the Arsenal of Freedom requires robust, dynamic supply chains at every level of the industrial base’
The U.S. and its partners depend on Patriot interceptors to shoot down incoming ballistic missiles. But Russia and Iran are firing their weapons at rates far higher than Patriots can be produced.
The “critical” list includes a dozen “legacy” munitions and two “emerging” munitions to be fast-tracked to troops.
On The Hill Sunday, Chris Stirewalt speaks with Rep. Adam Smith, Rep. Tom Cole, and retired Gen. John Teichert about the growing war with Iran. Smith warns Congress may ultimately need to cut funding to end the conflict and raises concerns about China helping Iran resupply. Cole argues that once troops are deployed, Congress must ensure they have the resources to succeed. Teichert also cautions that the U.S. doesn’t have unlimited weapons stockpiles and must rapidly expand advanced manufacturing to keep up with wartime demand.