The United States is set to deploy its advanced Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile defence system to Israel in its latest military assistance package. Along with the system, US soldiers will be sent to operate it, although the deployment date remains uncertain.
THAAD is a sophisticated missile defence system designed to intercept short-, medium-, and intermediate-range ballistic missiles using radar and interceptors. It can neutralize threats both inside and outside Earth’s atmosphere, providing a crucial layer of defence against missile attacks.
Despite its high cost, ranging from $1bn to $1.8bn per battery, the US has deployed seven THAAD batteries globally, including in South Korea and Guam. The decision to deploy the system to Israel comes in response to Iran’s recent missile attack, which showcased new technology that the US aims to test THAAD against.
While the likelihood of Israel receiving more THAAD batteries in the future is slim, the current deployment is aimed at bolstering the country’s air defences against potential threats from Iran. The collaboration between the THAAD and Israel’s existing defence systems highlights the ongoing efforts to enhance security in the region.
Overall, the deployment of THAAD demonstrates the US’s commitment to safeguarding Israel from ballistic missile attacks and underscores the strategic partnership between the two nations in the realm of defence.