The prolonged war between the United States and Iran is putting pressure on US military ammunition stocks.
Recent reports indicate that the conflict has used large quantities of missiles and air-defence interceptors.
The issue has raised concerns about how quickly the US defence industry can replace advanced weapons.
Billions spent on the war
The Pentagon’s inspector general previously estimated that the conflict had cost about $33.4 billion through June 19.
The estimate included major spending on military operations and munitions.
A newer assessment by the Congressional Budget Office put the total cost at about $38 billion through August 1.
The CBO said the cost could rise by another $3 billion each month if the conflict continues.
Munitions stocks under pressure
The conflict has placed particular pressure on precision weapons.
Reuters reported that the US military has used virtually all of its supply of certain long-range precision missiles.
Concerns have also been raised over Patriot and THAAD air-defence interceptors.
A Congressional Research Service assessment cited by Reuters found that significant portions of some interceptor stocks had already been used.
Pentagon disputes shortage claims
The Trump administration has rejected claims that the US military lacks the weapons needed to continue its operations.
The Pentagon has said US forces have the resources required to carry out the president’s military objectives.
The administration has also described US ammunition and stockpiles as sufficient for its strategic goals.
However, the debate over stockpiles has continued.
Military readiness has become a major issue as the conflict enters its seventh month.
Damage to US bases
Iranian attacks have also caused damage to US military facilities across the Middle East.
The Pentagon inspector general documented damage to hundreds of buildings and other structures.
Military aircraft and other assets have also been lost or damaged during the conflict.
The cost of all the damage has added to the wider financial burden of the war.
Concerns over future readiness
The pressure on US weapons stocks could have wider implications.
Military officials and lawmakers have raised concerns about maintaining readiness for other potential conflicts while the Iran war continues.
The United States has also shifted military assets from Europe and the Asia-Pacific toward the Middle East.
The continuing conflict therefore presents both a financial and logistical challenge for Washington.
