Why is it in the news?
- The U.S. is sending the Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system to Israel, along with American troops to operate it, as part of its commitment to Israel’s defense amidst escalating violence in the region.
- This decision underscores the U.S.’s “ironclad commitment to the defense of Israel,” especially following increased Iranian missile attacks on the country.
| THAAD
· THAAD is a highly advanced American missile defense system designed to intercept and destroy enemy missiles. A typical THAAD battery comprises 95 soldiers, six truck-mounted launchers, 48 interceptors (eight per launcher), radar surveillance, and a tactical fire component. · It is capable of defending against short-range (up to 1,000 km), medium-range (1,000–3,000 km), and limited intermediate-range (3,000–5,000 km) ballistic missile threats, employing “hit-to-kill” technology to eliminate threat missiles. · Developed by Lockheed Martin Corporation, THAAD offers a larger area of defense compared to the older Patriot Air and Missile Defense System.
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More about the news
- This move is part of broader adjustments made by the U.S. military to support Israel’s defense and protect Americans from Iranian attacks. Having a sophisticated defense system, along with U.S. military personnel stationed in Israel, occurs during a period of heightened tension in the West Asian region.
- Iran has responded to U.S. involvement by warning against further escalation in the conflict, stating that the U.S. is endangering its troops by deploying them to operate missile systems in Israel.
- Further, Iran’s Foreign Minister emphasized that Iran has no red lines when it comes to defending its people and interests. Meanwhile, Israel is preparing a retaliatory plan in response to a missile attack from Iran on October 1, even as the U.S. has urged restraint.
- Since the beginning of the Gaza war in October last year, Iran has launched missile attacks on Israel twice, with U.S. and allied efforts focused on defending Israel. The THAAD system’s presence is expected to serve as both a deterrent to Iran and reassurance to Israel.
- It’s noteworthy that while Ukraine has been seeking THAAD batteries to defend against Russia, such requests have been denied. THAAD is costly to operate, requiring trained U.S. personnel.
- Estimates suggest that while the export model of the Patriot system costs nearly USD 1 billion, a single THAAD battery is estimated to be around USD 2.5 billion.
- Israel already possesses an advanced, multi-tiered air defense system, and the addition of THAAD significantly enhances its capabilities. However, it is important to note that Iran benefits from lower costs in missile launches compared to the expenses incurred by Israel and the U.S. for interception.
