US Delays Weapon Deliveries to Baltic Allies After Iran War

The United States Department of Defense notified several European allies, including Scandinavian and Baltic nations, that weapons deliveries under the Foreign Military Sales program will be delayed. The shortages primarily affect ammunition and air defense resources, such as PAC-3 Patriot interceptors. These shortages resulted from the depletion of U.S. military stockpiles during the war with Iran, which began with U.S.-Israeli air strikes on February 28 and concluded with a ceasefire on April 8, 2026. The strain on inventories was further exacerbated by previous U.S. support for Ukraine and Israeli operations in Gaza.

Lithuania and Estonia confirmed receipt of the notifications on April 17. Lithuania has approximately $640 million in outstanding orders, while Estonia has $160 million in pending deliveries, including Javelin missiles and HIMARS rocket systems. Finland and other Scandinavian partners also received notice of potential delays as the Pentagon manages its remaining reserves.

While the Pentagon maintains it will ensure allies have the resources needed to win, the situation follows efforts by President Donald Trump to encourage NATO partners to increase their procurement of U.S.-made materiel. The delays highlight the logistical impact of the recent high-intensity campaign against Iran on the United States' ability to fulfill global military contracts simultaneously.