The US is redeploying Patriot and THAAD batteries from South Korea to the Middle East as interceptor and ammunition stocks run low after heavy use in fighting with Iran, creating immediate shortfalls. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung says Seoul opposes the transfers but concedes that US Forces Korea may move systems according to operational needs and reports cite US transport flights out of Osan. Pentagon officials and commentators including Pete Hegseth and Frank Kendall say replenishment and production of interceptors will take months, slowing planned deliveries to Taiwan and complicating regional defense plans. NATO shot down an Iranian missile over Turkey and Ankara deployed
Patriot batteries to Malatya, and analysts such as
Choi Gi-Il warn North Korea and China could test perceived gaps in deterrence if shortages persist.