U.S. Deploys THAAD Missile System to Israel

Why in the News?

The U.S. is sending a THAAD missile defence system to Israel amidst rising tensions with Iran and Hezbollah, reinforcing Israel’s air defences against recent ballistic missile attacks.

U.S. Deploys THAAD Missile System to Israel

Deployment Details:

  • The U.S. will send a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system to Israel.
  • The THAAD battery comes with troops to operate it, following a directive by President Biden.
  • The move is intended to strengthen Israel’s air defences in response to Iran’s ballistic missile attacks in April and October 2023.

Rising Tensions:

  • Iran has warned the U.S. to keep its military forces out of Israel.
  • Hezbollah and Israeli forces have been clashing since October 8, 2023, in support of Hamas.
  • Israel is preparing a military response to Iran’s attack, which involved 180 missiles fired at Israel.

Significance of THAAD:

  • THAAD complements the Patriot system but offers a wider defensive range of 150-200 kilometres.
  • The Pentagon emphasises the deployment underscores the U.S.’s commitment to Israel’s defence.
  • No clear timeline has been given for the arrival of the THAAD system in Israel.

Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD): Key Points

  • THAAD is an American anti-ballistic missile defence system designed to intercept short, medium, and intermediate-range missiles during their terminal phase.
  • Developed after Iraq’s Scud missile attacks during the 1991 Gulf War.
  • It uses a hit-to-kill approach, relying on kinetic energy to destroy incoming missiles.
  • THAAD interceptors do not carry warheads.
  • The system is integrated with space-based and ground-based surveillance for threat detection and classification.
  • Designed and manufactured by Lockheed Martin.
  • Previously deployed in the UAE, Guam, Israel, and Romania.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times