According to Times of Israel, the US’s Terminal High Altitude Area Defense ( THAAD ) system was stationed in Israel to intercept a Houthi ballistic missile launched from Yemen. The innovative missile defense system’s first operational use was made since it was first deployed in Israel in October. Images shared on social media captured the remarkable launch of a THAAD fighter, with an American soldier saying,” Eighteen times I’ve been waiting for this”.
The weapon, apparently targeting Israel, was neutralised by heat defence techniques. The Israeli Defense Forces ( IDF) have not yet established whether the American THAAD or an Israeli system was responsible for the intercept. An examination is being conducted to assess the effectiveness of the THAAD program, according to sources cited by Reuters.
What is the THAAD System?
The US ballistic missile defense network’s axis is the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense ( THAAD ) system. Designed to catch short- to intermediate-range nuclear missiles during their end period, THAAD employs “hit-to-kill” technology, where interceptors actually interact with incoming missiles to kill them. This strategy maximizes efficiency while minimizing collateral harm.
Important features of THAAD include:
- Range and insurance: THAAD complements other defense systems like the Aegis and Ground-based Midcourse techniques by covering a larger area than the Patriot missile system and capable of engaging target up to 200 kilometers away.
- Components: A THAAD battery includes six truck-mounted launchers, 48 interceptors, an advanced AN/TPY-2 radar system, and a fire control unit.
- Deployment: Operated by a crew of 95 soldiers, the system is rapidly deployable and designed to protect against evolving missile threats both within and outside the atmosphere.
THAAD, which was first developed by Lockheed Martin in the 1990s, has undergone significant testing and improvements. The US Army currently operates seven THAAD batteries, with deployments in strategic locations such as Guam and South Korea, and most recently, Israel.