The United States has warned Britain and other allies that they could face significant delays in receiving missile deliveries as the Pentagon struggles to replenish its stockpiles amid the ongoing conflict in Iran.
Pentagon Warning to Allies
The Pentagon has specifically cautioned the UK, Poland, Estonia, and other partner nations that delays for several missile systems could be serious. According to the Financial Times, these delays will crucially affect the Himars missile system, which Ukraine has relied upon in its war against Russia.
US Inventory Concerns
US officials are reportedly worried about their own inventory levels, as a substantial number of missiles have been committed to the Middle East conflict. To compensate for the shortfall, Washington has been forced to withdraw stockpiles from other regions, including the Indo-Pacific.
For Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who is already facing criticism over his government's lack of investment in defence, this situation could leave Britain more exposed. The war in Iran has raised alarm bells about Britain's readiness for conflict, following a drone attack on RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus in March and the delayed deployment of HMS Dragon to the region.
Pentagon Statement
In a statement, the Pentagon said it was 'carefully evaluating new requests for equipment from partners as well as existing arms transfer cases to ensure alignment with operational needs'. It declined to provide more details due to the 'operationally sensitive nature of these matters'.
Defence Investment Urged
Defence figures have urged Labour to invest more in the military in light of President Donald Trump's threat to pull out of Nato. After the government's 10-year defence investment plan was delayed last autumn, defence firms have reportedly told ministers that the postponements are leaving them in limbo, with some turning their focus to foreign markets.
The news of the missile delay comes at a time of tension between the US and its European allies after they refused to provide military support for the war in Iran. Leaked Pentagon emails last week outlined how America considered punishing its Nato allies, including potentially suspending Spain's membership and a review of America's position on Britain's claim to the Falkland Islands.
US-German Tensions
This week, President Trump announced that the US would withdraw 5,000 troops from Germany, following a spat with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who said the Iranians were humiliating the US in talks to end the two-month-old war and questioned Washington's exit strategy. The President ripped into Merz, saying 'he's doing a terrible job and he's got a big problem with Ukraine, because they're in that mess.'
A senior Pentagon official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said recent German rhetoric had been 'inappropriate and unhelpful.' 'The president is rightly reacting to these counterproductive remarks,' the official said.
European Defence Gaps
In response to heavy criticism from Washington over defence spending, European Nato members, including Germany, have pledged to take on more responsibility for their own defence. However, with tight budgets and vast military capability gaps, it will take years for the region to meet its own security needs.
