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Source: This post on Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) has been created based on the article “What is THAAD, which US is sending to Israel; why this is significant” published in Indian Express on 15th October 2024.
Why in news?
The United States has deployed 100 troops and the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) to Israel.
About Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)
| Aspects | Description |
| About | 1. THAAD (Terminal High Altitude Area Defense) is an advanced missile defense system designed to counter short, medium, and intermediate-range ballistic missile threats. 2. It is the only U.S. missile defense system capable of intercepting missiles both inside and outside the atmosphere (endoatmospheric and exoatmospheric). |
| Developed by | Lockheed Martin Corporation |
| Purpose | THAAD is designed to intercept ballistic missiles during the “terminal phase,” or the final stage of the missile’s flight before impact. |
| Features | 1. A THAAD battery comprises 95 soldiers, six truck-mounted launchers, 48 interceptors, a sophisticated radar surveillance system, and tactical fire control elements. 2. THAAD can target short, medium, and intermediate-range ballistic missiles (up to 5,000 km) during their terminal phase of flight, both within and outside the Earth’s atmosphere. 3. It employs “hit-to-kill” technology, directly striking threat missiles to neutralize them, which allows it to defend a larger area than older systems like the Patriot. |
| Components of THAAD | 1. Interceptor: Uses force to destroy incoming missiles. 2. Launch Vehicle: Mobile trucks equipped with the interceptors. 3. Radar: Detects and tracks missile threats from distances between 870 km to 3,000 km. 4. Fire Control System: Coordinates the launch and targeting of interceptors. |
| Significance of THAAD Deployment in West Asia | 1. Enhanced Defense for Israel: THAAD strengthens Israel’s already robust, multi-layered air defense, adding an advanced layer against potential missile threats from Iran and Iranian-aligned militias. 2. Strategic Deterrence: The presence of THAAD could act as a deterrent to further Iranian attacks, potentially stabilizing the tense situation in West Asia. 3. Risk to US Troops: The deployment requires US troops to operate the system, which increases the risk to American lives, as Iran has warned the US against deeper involvement in the conflict. |
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