The US will deploy the latest THAAD missile defence system in Israel to defend against Iranian ballistic missile strikes

The US continues to support Israel in its confrontation with aggressive neighbours and, above all, with Iran.

The Pentagon has announced the deployment of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defence (THAAD) missile defence system on Israeli territory.

Here's What We Know

Pentagon spokesman Major General Pat Ryder said that on the orders of President Joe Biden, the United States will temporarily deploy a THAAD battery in Israel.

The decision was prompted by massive Iranian ballistic missile strikes in April and October 2024. The Pentagon emphasises that the move will not only protect the population of Israel, but also reduce the risk of escalation in the Middle East.

Flashback

The THAAD missile defence system is designed to intercept short- and medium-range ballistic missiles in the terminal phase of their flight.

THAAD destroys targets by direct collision, which allows it to effectively defeat ballistic missiles at altitudes of 40 to 150 kilometres and at distances of up to 200 kilometres.

THAAD uses advanced radars and control systems to detect and track targets, as well as to accurately guide missiles, and can be deployed anywhere in the world.

It should be noted that Terminal High Altitude Area Defence is only effective against enemy missiles and does not shoot down aircraft. One missile costs up to $100 million.

The system was adopted in 2008 and has not been used in real combat conditions.

Source: U.S. Department of Defence