New Delhi: For the first time, the American Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile defense system has been utilized to intercept a ballistic missile targeting Israel. The missile, reportedly launched by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, marked a significant escalation in the region.
The THAAD system, deployed in Israel by the United States in October, was activated to intercept the missile, according to The Times of Israel. A video circulating on social media captured the moment the interceptor was launched, accompanied by an American soldier’s emotional declaration: “Eighteen years I’ve been waiting for this.”
While the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the successful interception, they refrained from specifying whether the system used was American or Israeli. However, reports from Israeli media indicated that THAAD played a critical role in neutralizing the threat.
Deployment and Capabilities of THAAD
The THAAD system was stationed in Israel following a ballistic missile attack by Iran on October 1. Renowned for its ability to intercept missiles both within and beyond the Earth’s atmosphere, THAAD is engineered to engage short-, medium-, and intermediate-range ballistic missiles during their terminal phase. The system employs kinetic energy to destroy incoming missiles, ensuring precise and effective neutralization without the use of explosive warheads.
A standard THAAD battery comprises six truck-mounted launchers, each capable of carrying up to eight interceptors, along with advanced radar and fire control systems. Its radar has an impressive detection range of 870 to 3,000 kilometers, allowing it to respond to threats swiftly and effectively.
Rising Tensions and Escalating Conflict
The Houthi missile launch was the fifth such attack on Israel in just over a week. The group claimed it had targeted Ben Gurion Airport. In retaliation, Israeli warplanes conducted strikes on Houthi installations in Yemen, including the Hezyaz power plant and key infrastructure at Sanaa International Airport.
Over the past year, the Iran-backed Houthis have launched more than 200 missiles and 170 drones at Israel, according to the IDF. Most of these threats were intercepted or fell short of their intended targets. The group has also disrupted maritime activity in the Red Sea, attacking over 100 merchant vessels and forcing rerouting of commercial shipping.
Regional Context
The Houthis have linked their actions to the ongoing Gaza conflict, which erupted on October 7, 2023, after an attack by Hamas on Israel. The rising hostilities underline the growing regional instability and the complex dynamics of the Middle East.
This event highlights the importance of advanced defense systems like THAAD in addressing evolving security challenges in the region.
