WASHINGTON, USA: The United States has deployed an advanced THAAD (Terminal High Altitude Area Defence) missile defence battery in Israel, a move aimed at bolstering the nation’s defences against potential Iranian ballistic missile attacks.
Pentagon Chief Lloyd Austin confirmed the system’s arrival but declined to specify its operational status. However, he noted that the system could be made operational swiftly if needed.
This deployment follows escalating tensions, including Iran’s recent missile attack on Israel, which Tehran claims was in retaliation for the assassination of key figures it supports in the Middle East.
The THAAD system, known for intercepting missiles at high altitudes, consists of truck-mounted launchers, interceptors, radars, and fire control units, and is operated by a team of 95 soldiers. The battery’s presence in Israel highlights the U.S.’s commitment to safeguarding both Israeli territory and US personnel from Iranian threats.
US ships and aircraft have already been involved in defending Israel from such attacks, but the arrival of THAAD represents a significant increase in defence capabilities, placing both U.S. troops and advanced military equipment on the ground in the region.
