US deploys THAAD battery and troops to support Israel
US sends THAAD system to Israel amid Hezbollah conflict
The United States will deploy a Terminal High Altitude Area Defence (THAAD) battery and troops to Israel to support its ongoing offensive against Hezbollah. Pentagon spokesman Major General Pat Ryder announced on Sunday that Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin authorised this deployment at President Joe Biden’s request.
This military aid decision follows Iran’s warning to the US to keep its forces out of Israel. Ryder mentioned that the air defence system would enhance Israel’s preparedness after Iran’s missile attacks earlier this month.
The THAAD system is an American anti-ballistic missile defence system capable of intercepting short, medium, and intermediate-range missiles. It employs a “hit to kill” approach, destroying missiles before they reach their target during descent.
The Pentagon has announced the Immediate Deployment of a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) Battery operated by U.S. Soldiers to Israel, in order to Bolster Israeli Defenses against any Future Attack by Iran using Ballistic Missiles. pic.twitter.com/TxJtSbemin
— OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) October 13, 2024
Developed after the Gulf War in 1991, the system was a response to Iraq’s Scud missile attacks, which resulted in significant casualties. Of the 88 Scud missiles launched by Iraq, 42 targeted Israel and 46 struck Saudi Arabia, killing many American soldiers.
The first THAAD proposal was submitted to the US Defence Ministry in 1987. After a series of failed tests, a successful version emerged in 1999. In 2008, the US deployed an early missile warning radar, part of the THAAD system, to Israel. Further deployments occurred in 2012 and 2019, enhancing Israel’s military capabilities in the Middle East.
What Other Media Are Saying
- CBS News reports the U.S. deploying a THAAD anti-missile system and troops to Israel to bolster defenses against potential Iranian attacks, highlighting the U.S.’s commitment to Israel’s security.(read more)
- Al Jazeera reports that the US is deploying the THAAD missile defense system and troops to Israel to bolster its air defenses against Iranian threats, underscoring the U.S. commitment to Israel’s security.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why is the US deploying THAAD to Israel?
To support Israel’s offensive against Hezbollah and enhance its preparedness against missile attacks.
What is the THAAD system?
THAAD is an American anti-ballistic missile defence system that intercepts short, medium, and intermediate-range missiles.
When was the THAAD system first developed?
The THAAD system development began after the Gulf War in 1991.
How does the THAAD system work?
It uses a ‘hit to kill’ approach, destroying missiles before they reach their target during descent.
Has the US deployed THAAD to Israel before?
Yes, including deployments in 2008, 2012, and 2019.
