FT: US warns allies of delays in weapons deliveries to Ukraine

The United States has warned European and Asian allies to expect significant delays in the delivery of key weapons systems as it works to replenish military stockpiles depleted by the ongoing war in Iran, according to multiple people familiar with the matter cited by The Financial Times. 

The Pentagon has informed countries including the UK, Poland, Lithuania and Estonia that shipments of several missile systems could be delayed, with discussions also taking place about postponing some deliveries to Asia. The delays are linked to concerns over reduced US inventories following heavy weapons use in recent months.

Officials said the strain has forced the US military to redistribute weapons from other regions, including the Indo-Pacific, while raising broader questions about readiness for potential future conflicts, including a possible confrontation with China over Taiwan.

The affected systems reportedly include HIMARS rocket systems and NASAMS air defence systems, widely used by US partners such as Ukraine and several NATO and Indo-Pacific allies.

The Pentagon said it was reviewing all arms transfers. It stated it was “carefully evaluating new requests for equipment from partners as well as existing arms transfer cases to ensure alignment with operational needs”. It declined to provide further details, citing the “operationally sensitive nature of these matters”.

The delays come amid rising tensions between Washington and European allies. President Donald Trump has criticised NATO partners for their role in supporting US operations related to Iran.

Security experts also warned that Asian allies, including Japan and South Korea, may face similar disruptions. Christopher Johnstone of The Asia Group said, “Allies in Asia are likely underestimating the impact that US munition shortfalls will have on them and how long the impact will last.”

He added, “Japan was already deeply frustrated with delivery delays for systems they have paid for, including the Tomahawk cruise missiles.”

US defence companies are increasing production, but officials say supply chains remain under pressure and delivery timelines extend several years. Admiral Samuel Paparo, the Indo-Pacific commander, recently said it could take up to two years to scale up production sufficiently.

The strain has also affected Ukraine, where officials report delays in US weapons shipments since the escalation of the Iran conflict, with some Patriot air defence systems arriving late during Russian missile attacks.

By Sabina Mammadli