Israel-Ukraine Compete Over US-Supplied Weapons... Shell Shortage Deepens

As clashes between Israel and the Palestinian armed faction Hamas show signs of prolonged conflict, competition over U.S. support weapons with Ukraine is intensifying. There are even warnings that stocks of artillery ammunition, which are already facing severe shortages, could be depleted among the U.S. and other Western countries.

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

According to the New York Times (NYT) on the 22nd (local time), Israel and Ukraine are reportedly competing to receive 155mm shells, smart bombs, Stinger missiles, and other weapons from the U.S.

Following U.S. President Joe Biden’s national address on the 19th, in which he pledged support for both fronts in Ukraine and Israel, simultaneous aid to both countries was confirmed, raising concerns that some support weapons may face stock shortages.

In particular, the demand for 155mm shells is expected to clash between Israel, which is preparing for a large-scale ground troop deployment, and Ukraine, which is already consuming massive amounts on the front lines. Since the outbreak of the Ukraine war in February last year, the U.S. has sent over 2 million 155mm shells to Ukraine, and European countries have sent similar quantities, but almost all have been expended in combat.

According to the NYT, in January the U.S. Department of Defense announced that it would send 155mm shells reserved for Israel to Ukraine in preparation for Middle East demand, and about half of Israel’s stockpile has already been depleted. A senior NATO official told the NYT, "Western ammunition reserves are now nearing depletion." Consequently, red flags are being raised regarding the adequate stock levels of the U.S. and Western countries.

Stinger missiles, widely used in air defense and protection systems, are also reported to be facing serious stock shortages. According to the NYT, Stinger missiles are relatively inexpensive compared to other air defense missiles and are favored by the Israeli military for their portability, leading to strong demands for support.

Mark Cancian, senior adviser at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in Washington, told the NYT, "Stocks of Stinger missiles are extremely limited, and new production is almost nonexistent," expressing concern that a supply shortage could occur.