Rep. Don Bacon Raises Concerns Over Reported U.S. Missile Shortage

Republican Representative Don Bacon of Nebraska told CBS News host Ed O’Keefe that he is “concerned” about President Donald Trump’s statement that he was unaware of a shortage of key U.S. weapons, including cruise missiles and Patriot air-defense systems. Bacon, a member of the House Armed Services Committee, said the lack of transparency on munitions status is troubling as the United States continues its six-month-old war with Iran.

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Since the conflict began, the Army has reportedly used virtually all of its tactical missile-system munitions and precision-strike missiles, each costing more than $1 million. The Pentagon has also expended nearly 80 percent of its terminal high-altitude area-defense interceptors and roughly half of its Patriot interceptors, according to multiple news reports. The war’s sustained demand has prompted the Department of Defense to pursue additional production contracts.

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• Tactical missiles: Virtually exhausted, per Reuters.

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• Terminal high-altitude interceptors: About 80 percent used, per CNN.

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• Patriot interceptors: Roughly 50 percent expended, per CNN.

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• New production contract: The Navy announced a $22.9 billion award to Raytheon to accelerate Tomahawk missile production.

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President Trump has publicly denied that the U.S. military is low on munitions, describing the usage as “peanuts” in remarks to Fox News. The Pentagon’s recent contracts with defense contractors are presented as steps to address the shortfall.

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“I do have concerns that the president said he was not aware that we had a shortage of weapons like cruise missiles and Patriots. That’s not a good … thing,” — Rep. Don Bacon

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