THAAD air defence system used in Israel for the first time to intercept ballistic missile

THAAD, developed by Lockheed Martin, is uniquely capable of intercepting ballistic missiles both within the Earth’s atmosphere and in outer space at altitudes ranging from 30 to 150 kilometres. Unlike Israel’s Arrow systems—Arrow 2 operates within the atmosphere and Arrow 3 beyond it—THAAD offers a versatile defence option for neutralising threats of varying ranges and trajectories.

“18 שנה חיכיתי לרגע הזה”: חייל אמריקני תיעד אמש את היירוט של הטיל החות’י וחשף שהוא יורט באמצעות מערכת ההגנה האווירית “THAAD” האמריקנית@ItayBlumental pic.twitter.com/awPcYbUpgG

— כאן חדשות (@kann_news) December 27, 2024

The system was deployed to Israel on 13 October 2024 by directive of US President Joe Biden. Its primary objective is to bolster Israeli air defences amidst escalating threats from Iran, which has engaged in direct missile exchanges with Israel twice this year. The most recent attack, on 1 October, involved approximately 200 ballistic missiles and tested Israel’s defensive resilience, reportedly costing the nation hundreds of millions of dollars.

While Houthi attacks are less intense compared to those orchestrated by Iran, they pose a persistent threat as they often employ ballistic missiles or drones. Some of these missiles, particularly those classified as hypersonic, have evaded complete interception by Israel’s Arrow systems, occasionally leading to partial penetrations. The recent interception of a Houthi missile highlights the enhanced vigilance and operational integration of the THAAD system, which has adapted to Israel’s updated alert and interception protocols.

The deployment of THAAD in Israel reflects the growing recognition of its strategic importance in addressing evolving regional threats. The system’s first combat success was recorded in 2022 in the United Arab Emirates, where it intercepted a Houthi missile. Both the UAE and Saudi Arabia have since acquired THAAD batteries to counter threats from Iran and its regional proxies, such as the Houthis.

The US currently operates seven THAAD batteries, each valued at $1 to $1.8 billion, and plans to expand the fleet to eight. This investment aligns with broader security priorities, as discussions are underway to station a THAAD battery in Europe to address emerging threats from Russia.

The integration of THAAD into Israel’s defence architecture has introduced new capabilities that complement existing systems. Enhanced protocols now trigger alerts even before missiles re-enter the atmosphere, ensuring greater preparedness and civilian safety. However, these measures have also increased the frequency of alarms, underscoring the constant vigilance required to defend against missile threats in the region.

As an American soldier stationed in Israel poignantly remarked in a video shared on social media, “I’ve waited 18 years for this.” This statement encapsulates the readiness and dedication of US forces in supporting their Israeli counterparts during a critical moment for regional stability and defence innovation.