In just four days, Iran missiles have put significant pressure on the expensive defense systems of the United States and Israel. Reports indicate that the US and Israeli missile systems, including Patriot and Tomahawk missiles, are being rapidly depleted.
On February 28, the United States and Israel launched a joint preemptive air strike targeting Iranian military installations and high-ranking officials. Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and several senior military officers were reportedly killed in the attacks. The initial aim was to weaken Iran’s leadership and bring about rapid regime change.
However, Iran responded swiftly and methodically. According to former Indian Colonel Rajiv Agrawal, Iran has used large numbers of ballistic missiles and drones to target US and Israeli positions, creating immense pressure on their defense systems.
Agrawal noted that the cost of weapons is also a crucial factor. A US Patriot or Tomahawk missile costs approximately $1–3 million, while Iranian ballistic missiles are valued at $0.8–1 million each. Similarly, the US MQ-9 Reaper drone costs around $30 million, whereas Iran’s Shahed drones cost just $30,000–50,000. This difference is causing both financial and strategic challenges for the US and Israel.
According to reports, about 500 US soldiers have died in the conflict, and the first 24 hours alone saw nearly $779 million in missile expenses. Within three days, the total cost reached $1.24 billion.
Agrawal further explained that the US and Israel currently have around 600–800 Patriot missiles in the conflict zone. Each incoming missile requires 4–6 interceptors. So far, 150–200 missiles have already been used, raising concerns that defenses could run out within the next 4–7 days.
International media reports suggest that the US is considering transferring additional Patriot missiles from Japan and South Korea.
Iran reportedly has 20,000 to 50,000 missiles of various types and thousands of drones. Many of these weapons are stored in underground facilities, making them hard to target with air strikes. Iran continues missile and drone attacks to keep US and Israeli defense systems occupied.
Former Colonel Agrawal also warned that the conflict holds political significance for US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, both facing elections and political pressure. Analysts say Iran’s strategy has made the situation more complex than expected.
