Key information
- The use of Tomahawk missiles during Operation Epic Fury has raised concerns about possible shortages due to the intensity of the conflict and the high cost of these missiles.
- The United States must find a balance between its dependence on expensive Tomahawk missiles and the use of less expensive alternatives.
- Replenishing depleted Tomahawk stocks will take years, underscoring the need for strategic flexibility in munitions use.
The heavy dependence of the American army on Tomahawk missiles as part of Operation Epic Fury, the military offensive of the United States and Israel against Iran, has raised concerns about possible shortages, particularly given the commitments more wide of the country in terms of security. Mark Cancian and Chris Park, researchers from the Center for Strategic International Studieshowever, estimate that there are still around 3,000 Tomahawks remaining. This number has declined significantly since the intense initial phase of the conflict.
Evolution of tactics
These long-range cruise missiles are valued for their precision, versatility and ability to be launched from ships, allowing the United States to strike targets without the need for bases in hostile territory. However, their high cost, around $3.5 million (around €3.2 million) each, compared to less expensive alternatives like JDAM guided bombs, led to a decline in the use of Tomahawks once air superiority was established.
The depletion of Tomahawk stockpiles raises concerns about the United States’ ability to deter and respond to potential conflicts in other regions, particularly in the face of China’s growing military capabilities, Cancian said in an interview granted to Military Times. The Tomahawk’s long range is crucial to countering Chinese threats to Taiwan, allowing the United States to strike from a safe distance while effectively defending its allies.
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Cancian estimates that replenishing Tomahawk inventories could take two to three years, despite continued efforts by the Department of Defense to increase production rates. This highlights the need for strategic flexibility and the use of more cost-effective munitions where possible, to ensure combat operations can continue without depleting essential resources.
The conflict also saw significant use of Patriot missile systems in the Gulf region to defend against Iranian ballistic missiles. Although current stockpiles are sufficient, concerns remain over long-term viability and the potential reallocation of production to prioritize allies facing immediate threats.
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