US military cost of Iran war tops $47 billion, Pentagon figures show

In brief

• The Pentagon estimates the US war against Iran has cost more than $47 billion, over 25 percent above its July forecast.
• Most of the spending covers replenishing munitions and replacing lost or damaged equipment.
• Base repair costs are not yet included, so the total could rise further.

Costs rise above Pentagon forecast

The Pentagon's latest estimates put the cost of the US military campaign against Iran at more than $47 billion (Válka proti Íránu stála USA dosud přes bilion korun, zjistil Reuters – ČT24) (Война с Ираном обошлась США более чем в $47 млрд: основная часть расходов пришлась на боеприпасы – NV). That figure is over 25 percent higher than the total the Defense Department projected in July.

Munitions drive most of the bill

The bulk of the spending is tied to restocking weapons and replacing hardware used or lost in combat. More than $29 billion is needed to replenish expended munitions, and another $6 billion-plus is required to replace military equipment.

Base damage not yet priced

The figures do not include a clear estimate for repairing US military bases damaged by Iranian missile and drone strikes, so the overall cost could be higher still.

Trend since September

In September, the Pentagon put the cost of the war at just under $44 billion. The total therefore grew by more than $3 billion over the past month.

Possible renewed fighting

Media reports say President Donald Trump could resume large-scale operations against Iran before or after the midterm congressional elections. US intelligence, according to the same reports, suggests Iran may be preparing attempts against American officials, and Washington has quietly begun evacuating some diplomats from countries in the Middle East.

Cost comparison

• July Pentagon projection: more than $37 billion (implied by the 25 percent gap)
• September estimate: just under $44 billion
• Latest estimate: more than $47 billion
• Munitions replenishment: more than $29 billion
• Equipment replacement: more than $6 billion