US Announces Deployment of THAAD Missile Systems In Israel To Counter Iranian Air Threats

Washington: The United States will send a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense battery to Israel, along with the troops needed to operate it, the Pentagon said on Sunday, even as Iran warned Washington to keep American military forces out of Israel.

Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, the Pentagon spokesman, stated that Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin authorized the deployment of a THAAD missile defense system following President Joe Biden 's directive. This system is intended to enhance Israel's air defenses in light of Iran's ballistic missile attacks on the country in April and October.

The introduction of this advanced missile defense system could exacerbate tensions in the Middle East, even as diplomatic efforts are underway to prevent a full-scale war. Iran responded to the news via a post on the platform X, associated with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, referencing earlier speculation about the U.S. deployment.

US To Send THAAD Anti-Air Missile Defense Systems To Iran

Since October 8, 2023, Israeli forces have been engaged in clashes with Hezbollah fighters in Lebanon, who began launching rockets in support of Hamas in Gaza. Recently, Israel initiated a ground invasion into Lebanon in response to these developments.

Israel is reportedly preparing for military action following Iran's missile attack on October 1, which involved approximately 180 missiles aimed at Israel.

Before departing Florida, Biden expressed to reporters that he approved the THAAD battery deployment "to defend Israel." He spoke at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa after a visit to assess damage from Hurricane Milton and engage with first responders, residents, and local leaders. 

Ryder, in his statement, said the deployment "underscores the United States' ironclad commitment to the defence of Israel, and to defend Americans in Israel, from any further ballistic missile attacks by Iran”.

The U.S. deployed a THAAD battery to the Middle East along with additional Patriot battalions to enhance protection for U.S. forces in the region following the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel by Hamas militants. Maj. Gen. Ryder also mentioned that a THAAD battery was sent to Israel in 2019 for training purposes.

What Is THAAD Missile System and Its Specifications?

The Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD), also known as Theater High Altitude Area Defense, is an American missile defense system designed to intercept and destroy short, medium, and intermediate-range ballistic missiles during their terminal phase using a hit-to-kill method.

THAAD is designed to complement the Patriot system but offers a broader area of defense, capable of engaging targets at ranges between 150 to 200 kilometers (93 to 124 miles).

(With inputs from AP)