US Pentagon says Iran war costs exceed $47 billion, topping earlier estimate
Pentagon data show that U.S. spending on the war in Iran has risen to over $47 billion, about 25 % higher than the $37.5 billion estimate given in July.
Washington – Pentagon figures obtained by Reuters indicate that U.S. military expenditures for the war in Iran have surpassed $47 billion, exceeding the Defence Department’s July estimate by more than a quarter. The latest calculation includes operational costs such as flight operations and cyber support, and projects over $29 billion to replace munitions used in the conflict. An additional $6 billion is earmarked for replacing equipment and "platform losses," which cover aircraft and drones lost during combat.
The cost increase is reported as Congress prepares for the November 3 elections, which will decide control of both chambers. President Donald Trump’s approval ratings have been affected by the war’s impact on global energy prices. The conflict began in February when the United States and Israel launched operations against Iran, with an initial strategy that relied on high-end precision missiles before shifting to less expensive munitions. After an April ceasefire, Iran restored underground storage facilities and some of its defensive capabilities, prompting the United States to impose a naval blockade aimed at limiting Iranian oil revenues. Anonymous U.S. officials say the Pentagon has plans to resume heavy fighting if directed.
The new estimate contrasts with Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth’s July figure of $37.5 billion. The breakdown does not explicitly detail the projected costs for repairing damage to U.S. bases caused by Iranian missile and drone attacks.