Key facts
- Iran is rapidly restoring missile tunnels and bases damaged by U.S. and Israeli bombing.
- Satellite images show bomb craters have been filled and roads repaved at missile sites.
- President Trump estimates Iran has 21%-22% of its missiles remaining.
- CIA estimates suggest Iran still holds about 70% of its missiles and 75% of launchers.
- Iran is using basic construction equipment to reopen subterranean missile program sites.
Iran is reportedly rapidly restoring its missile tunnels and bases that were targeted in a recent U.S. and Israeli bombing campaign, referred to as Operation Epic Fury. Satellite imagery indicates that bomb craters have been filled, and roads within the bases have been repaired and repaved. Basic construction equipment is being used to reopen subterranean sites associated with Iran's missile program. President Trump has stated that Iran has approximately 21%-22% of its missiles and drones remaining, suggesting a significant reduction from pre-war levels. However, a Washington Post report citing CIA estimates indicates Iran still possesses about 70% of its missiles and 75% of its missile launchers. Experts like Sam Lair from the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies note that Iran still has an ample stockpile of missiles, and the effectiveness of the bombing campaign depends on sustained strategic aims and achievable victory theories. The U.S. military has achieved tactical successes in damaging Iran's missile infrastructure, but the speed of repairs raises questions about the long-term strategic impact of the strikes.