U.S. military deploys THAAD missile defense system to Israel

U.S. European Command is currently conducting a THAAD missile defense system exercise deployment in Israel, which is part of US efforts to implement its operational concept & mission to assist in Israel’s aerial defense.

THAAD advanced missile defense systems and some 200 American troops have deployed to Israel as part of joint exercises. THAAD deployed from the 11th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, 32nd Army Air and Missile Defense Command (AAMDC) stationed at Ft. Bliss, Texas.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced on Monday that U.S. troops belonging to the US European Command (EUCOM) have deployed its THAAD anti-ballistic missile defense system in Israel as part of a joint drill between the two allies.

The purpose of the tactical deployment of the mobile American Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system in Israel is “to train the ability to rapidly deploy complex systems around the world while strengthening capabilities and cooperation with the air defense systems of the Israel Air Force,” the statement said.

Also added that: “The IDF is grateful for this exercise and stands ready to protect Israel’s airspace and civilians against a variety of threats from near and far. This is a defensive deployment that is not related to any specific current event.”

The drill comes shortly after the completion of Juniper Falcon 2019, which tested the level of coordination between the two countries in the event of a ballistic missile threat against Israel.

The THAAD element provides a globally-transportable, rapidly-deployable capability to intercept ballistic missiles inside or outside the atmosphere during their final, or terminal, phase of flight. THAAD is strictly a defensive weapon system. The system uses hit-to-kill technology where kinetic energy destroys the incoming target.

Each THAAD system is comprised of five major components: interceptors, launchers, a radar, a fire control unit, and support equipment.