The advanced THAAD air defense system that the United States is sending to Israel signifies the preparedness of both nations for potential attacks from Iran and its allies. This system adds an additional layer of protection to Israel's existing air defense capabilities.
The Pentagon announced the deployment of a THAAD battery on Sunday, which will be accompanied by approximately 100 American troops to operate the system, positioning U.S. service members closer to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Yehoshua Kalisky, a military technology expert at the Institute for National Security Studies in Tel Aviv, stated, “It’s a political message of the United States to Israel that, ‘We are with you,’” while also serving as a warning to adversaries.
The Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system is a mobile surface-to-air interceptor designed to neutralize incoming ballistic missiles. It is capable of targeting threats both within and above the Earth’s atmosphere and consists of five components: interceptor missiles, launchers, radar, a command-and-control platform, and support equipment.
According to Lockheed Martin, the manufacturer, there are only nine active THAAD batteries globally, with seven assigned to the U.S. Army and deployed in locations such as Guam and South Korea. The battery sent to Israel is expected to be one of these seven, with two additional batteries located in the United Arab Emirates.
The Pentagon had previously announced plans to send a THAAD battery to the Middle East nearly a year ago, although the specific location was not disclosed at that time.
Experts indicate that the THAAD system can intercept ballistic missiles launched from Iran and Yemen, as well as shorter-range missiles from Hezbollah in Lebanon. The system is also capable of addressing guided cruise missiles and drones, which operate at lower altitudes and speeds.
Kalisky noted that THAAD would be beneficial in intercepting debris from downed missiles before it can cause harm on the ground, highlighting its advanced radar capabilities for early detection of incoming threats.
Fabian Hinz, a missiles and Middle East expert at the International Institute for Strategic Studies in London, emphasized that the THAAD would serve as an essential layer of air defense, especially given that some Iranian missiles have previously evaded Israeli interceptors.
The THAAD system differs from Israel’s other air defense systems primarily in its range. With a range of approximately 125 miles, THAAD's launchers and command centers are mobile, allowing for strategic repositioning.
Kalisky compared THAAD to Israel’s David’s Sling, a stationary system with a range of about 185 miles, designed to intercept short- and medium-range ballistic and cruise missiles. David’s Sling is a collaborative effort between Raytheon and Israeli defense manufacturer Rafael.
Israel’s Arrow series, produced by Israel Aerospace Industries and Boeing, includes the Arrow 2, which can intercept high-altitude targets with a range of about 60 miles, and the Arrow 3, capable of reaching beyond the atmosphere with a range of up to 1,500 miles. The Arrow 3 was utilized to counter Iranian strikes on October 1.
The Iron Dome, known for its frequent use, is Israel’s most recognized air defense system, employing short-range interceptors to target incoming rockets. It is produced by Rafael, the Israeli defense contractor.