The US is running considerably low on critical missile interceptors and other munitions after months of war with Iran, according to a former US Defence Secretary, as concerns grow over America's ability to replenish weapons stocks quickly and maintain military readiness against other potential threats. 

Mark Esper, who served as Defence Secretary during President Donald Trump's first term, said shortages of Patriot and Terminal High Altitude Area Defence (THAAD) interceptors were serious and warned that rebuilding stocks would take time.