NATO Intel Reveals Surprise About Iran’s Missile Arsenal and War Endurance

Iran has managed to preserve the bulk of its missile power despite sustained military pressure, according to intelligence assessments shared with a British newspaper. The Independent reported on Saturday that NATO’s intelligence arm believes the Islamic Republic still holds onto most of its missile systems and related infrastructure, much of it buried underground.

“Intelligence agencies have warned that Iran can still access most of its missiles and underground facilities,” the newspaper wrote, citing unnamed sources familiar with the assessments.

According to those sources, NATO intelligence estimates that Iran has retained no less than 60 percent of its missile capabilities. US intelligence goes further, concluding that 90 percent of Iranian launch sites and military depots are now “partially or fully operational.”

The Independent also noted that Iran is believed capable of sustaining a conflict with the United States for several more months.

Background of the Conflict

The United States and Israel began striking targets inside Iranian territory on February 28. A ceasefire between Washington and Tehran was announced on April 8, but the US subsequently imposed a blockade on Iranian ports. In response, Iran declared special transit rules for vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz.