The U.S. has deployed its advanced Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile system to Israel, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin confirmed on Monday. The deployment of the THAAD system, which is now operational, comes in response to heightened tensions in the region following an October 1 attack by Iran, in which approximately 180 ballistic missiles were fired at Israel. The deployment is intended to bolster Israel’s already robust missile defense capabilities, particularly in anticipation of a potential Iranian retaliation for Israeli strikes in Lebanon and Tehran.
THAAD is a mobile, long-range missile defense system capable of intercepting short- to intermediate-range ballistic missiles at high altitudes, including outside the Earth’s atmosphere. Its addition complements Israel’s multi-layered air defense network, which includes the Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and Patriot missile systems. The system provides broader coverage than the Patriot and enhances Israel’s ability to defend key infrastructure, population centers, and military assets from aerial threats.
Around 100 U.S. troops have been deployed alongside the THAAD battery to operate the system. The deployment marks the first time that U.S. personnel have been stationed in Israel to directly manage such an advanced defense asset, further underscoring the close military cooperation between the two nations.
The deployment follows a series of aggressive actions by Iran and its proxies in the region, including missile attacks and military escalations involving groups like Hezbollah and Hamas. Israel has vowed to retaliate against Tehran for the October 1 missile barrage, which was intercepted by a combination of Israeli, U.S., and allied defense systems.
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