CNN reports the cost of a US-Iran war could reach $40-50 billion, significantly exceeding the Pentagon’s initial $25 billion estimate.
Initial Pentagon Estimate Understates True Costs
The Pentagon’s $25 billion estimate, presented to the House of Representatives, primarily covers ammunition costs since the start of the war.
It does not include substantial damage to US military installations in the region or the expenses associated with their reconstruction, according to CNN.
Iranian Attacks Inflict Significant Damage
Within the first 48 hours of the conflict, Iranian attacks significantly damaged at least nine US military bases in Bahrain, Kuwait, Iraq, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar.
Key US radar systems, including THAAD in Jordan, and facilities housing similar systems in the UAE, were also destroyed. An E-3 Sentry early warning aircraft was destroyed in a strike on a Saudi Arabian airbase.
$11 Billion Spent in First Six Days
After six days of war, the Pentagon informed Congress that operations in the Persian Gulf had cost $11 billion.
The Defense Department requested an additional $200 billion in March to fund the ongoing conflict.
Uncertainty Remains Over Reconstruction Costs
Pentagon financial controller Jules Hurst admitted to Congress that the full extent of losses related to field-based military installations has not yet been assessed.
The final cost will depend on “how and whether they are rebuilt,” with potential contributions from US allies towards reconstruction efforts.
Defense Department Seeks $200 Billion
The Department of Defense has requested $200 billion for the ongoing conflict.
