2026-03-19 19:11
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2026-03-19 19:11
Global stockpiles of air defense missiles are dwindling rapidly due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, according to Armin Papperger, CEO of the German arms manufacturer Rheinmetall.
– At this point, stockpiles in Europe, the U.S., and the Middle East are empty or nearly empty. There is a huge demand for missiles and air defense systems – Papperger told CNBC.
The CEO of Rheinmetall assessed that “if the war lasts another month, we will practically have no missiles available.”
– It’s a simple calculation. If you produce 60–70 thousand drones, and the price of one is $20–30 thousand, that’s nothing compared to the costs of fighting them – Papperger said.
Rheinmetall representatives are currently in the Middle East, he added, discussing potential purchases of the German company’s systems with interested partners.
The United States, in conjunction with Israel, has been attacking Iran since February 28, with Iran conducting counterattacks in the Middle East. On Wednesday evening, Israel attacked Iran’s South Pars gas field, the world’s largest known gas deposit. Iran responded with strikes on energy facilities in Gulf states, including the Ras Laffan complex in Qatar, one of the world’s main LNG production plants. (PAP)
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The warning from a major arms manufacturer highlights the strain the conflict is placing on global defense capabilities. The depletion of air defense resources could have significant implications for international security and potentially escalate tensions further. Papperger’s comments, made in an exclusive interview with CNBC on Thursday, March 19, 2026, underscore the urgency of replenishing these critical supplies. According to Papperger, the situation is critical. “At this point, stockpiles in Europe, the U.S., and the Middle East are empty or nearly empty. There is a huge demand for missiles and air defense systems,” he stated. The Rheinmetall CEO went on to suggest a rapidly closing window for intervention. “If the war lasts another month, we will practically have no missiles available,” he warned. He explained the economic realities driving the demand, stating, “It’s a simple calculation. If you produce 60–70 thousand drones, and the price of one is $20–30 thousand, that’s nothing compared to the costs of fighting them.” Rheinmetall is actively engaging with potential buyers in the region. Papperger confirmed that company representatives are currently in the Middle East, meeting with partners to discuss the acquisition of Rheinmetall’s defense systems. The situation unfolds as the United States and Israel continue attacks on Iran, which has been responding with counterattacks throughout the Middle East. Recent actions include an Israeli strike on the South Pars gas field and Iranian retaliatory strikes on energy facilities in Gulf states, including the Ras Laffan complex in Qatar, a major LNG producer. This development underscores growing regional tensions and the potential for further escalation.
