Iran Quickly Recovers Missile Arsenal Despite US Claims, Hits Nine US Bases in Middle East
Despite former US President Donald Trump's claims that 92% of Iran's missile capabilities were destroyed, recent attacks reveal Tehran's significant missile arsenal remains intact and operational. Over the past two weeks, Iran has struck nine American military bases across the Middle East, killing four US soldiers and injuring about 100 others. These attacks included more than 60 ballistic missiles fired toward Jordan, particularly targeting the joint US-Jordan base at Al-Azraq and the Aqaba region, demonstrating Iran's continued ability to inflict serious damage.
Retired Brigadier General Tzvika Haimovich, former commander of Israel's air defense, told N12 that Iran's rapid recovery and sustained missile launches indicate active missile and drone units, functioning command and control systems, and a swift restoration capability. He noted that despite US airstrikes on Iran's underground "missile cities" during Operation "Roaring Lion," many missile stocks survived and were redeployed. The Iranian regime's willingness to escalate attacks reflects confidence in its remaining arsenal.
The attacks exposed vulnerabilities in US defense systems, as missile interceptors have been depleted after weeks of engagements, leading US commanders to selectively allow some Iranian missiles to strike to conserve interceptors. The US Air Force is urgently seeking new mobile defense systems with larger interceptor inventories to protect its bases from cruise missiles and drones.
Haimovich also highlighted the risk to Israel, as some missiles fired toward Jordan were close to Israeli territory, underscoring Iran's precision capabilities and confidence. He expects future conflicts involving Iran and possibly the Houthis to maintain similar missile launch volumes, estimating Iran can still fire 10 to 15 missiles daily. The Houthis are anticipated to play a larger role in any upcoming escalation, complicating the regional security landscape.
This ongoing missile threat challenges US and allied defenses in the region and signals that Iran's military capabilities remain robust despite previous claims of degradation.
