The US will postpone weapons deliveries to European nations because the Iran war depletes critical stockpiles, Reuters reported citing five sources. Consequently, Baltic and Scandinavian countries face delayed arrivals of contracted defense equipment.
European governments purchased these weapons through the Foreign Military Sales program, yet shipments remain undelivered, sources confirmed to Reuters. US officials recently notified European counterparts about likely delays through bilateral communications. Estonia and Lithuania’s defense ministries told Reuters that Washington alerted them about potential equipment delays.
A Pentagon spokesperson stated, “America’s military is the most powerful in the world, and we will ensure that US forces and those of our allies and partners have what they need to fight and win.” However, the spokesperson declined specific comments citing operational security concerns.
Strategic Tensions Mount Across Europe
European officials express frustration because these delays compromise their defense readiness, Reuters noted. Meanwhile, Washington encouraged NATO partners to buy more US-made equipment under President Donald Trump’s initiative. Nevertheless, recurring delivery delays push some European capitals toward domestically produced weapons systems.
US officials argue Middle East war demands prioritize these weapons. Additionally, the US already depleted billions in stockpiles supporting Ukraine since 2022 and Israel since late 2023. Since the Iran campaign began, Tehran launched hundreds of ballistic missiles and drones toward Gulf states. Most interceptions relied on PAC-3 Patriot systems, which Ukraine also depends upon for infrastructure defense.
The Sources concluded that the delayed inventory includes various ammunition types suitable for offensive and defensive operations.
