New US intelligence reveals that Iran still possesses thousands of missiles and one-way attack drones, even after weeks of heavy bombing by US and Israeli forces. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. James Adams, director of the Defense Intelligence Agency, testified before the House Armed Services Committee on Thursday, stating that Iran's munitions pose a significant threat to American and partner forces in the region.
Iran's Resilient Arsenal
Adams noted that Iran has managed to preserve its weapons supply 'despite degradations to its capabilities from both attrition and expenditure.' This assessment comes after Operation Epic Fury, during which US and coalition forces targeted over 450 ballistic missile storage facilities and 800 drone storage sites. Air Force Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, claimed, 'All of these systems are gone,' though Adams' testimony suggests otherwise.
'Iran retains thousands of missiles and drones, which remain a persistent threat,' Adams said.
Underground Capabilities
Pentagon officials believe Iran has hidden much of its weaponry underground, making it difficult to fully neutralize. Satellite imagery has shown Tehran excavating bases previously struck in the conflict. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed that Iran is actively digging out its remaining missiles and launchers.
Iran launched hundreds of missiles and drones at US bases, Israel, and Gulf states during the conflict, with the US and its Gulf partners intercepting around 1,700 of them. Should hostilities resume, Iran's remaining arsenal could threaten US forces engaged in maritime blockades and mine-clearing operations in the Strait of Hormuz.
Economic Pressure
The ongoing US-led blockade of Iranian ports, involving more than a dozen warships, aims to cut off critical oil revenue, further straining Iran's economy. Several merchant vessels have already turned around to avoid interdiction, signaling the operation's immediate impact.