US Army Pacific sees Iran conflict as chance to upgrade missile defenses amid China tensions

At the Association of the United States Army conference, Gen. Ronald Clark explained that the redeployment of Patriot and THAAD systems to support operations in Iran has created an unexpected modernization window for U.S. defenses. A Congressional Research Service report estimates about 1,700 Patriot and 200 THAAD interceptors have been used, raising concerns about inventory shortfalls highlighted by the Pentagon’s inspector general.

Clark said the experience is sharpening crew skills and that upgraded Patriot batteries can now provide coverage previously requiring an entire battalion. He warned that the People’s Liberation Army is still expanding its capabilities despite recent US-China diplomatic talks. Clark also referenced Admiral Samuel Paparo’s discussions on reviving disaster-management exchanges with Chinese counterparts, hoping such dialogue will reduce the likelihood of conflict. Finally, he emphasized that the Army now has more resources in the Pacific than ever before, including additional divisions and long-range strike formations.