In News:

Recent reports indicate that Iran struck a radar associated with the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system used by the United States and Israel in West Asia. The incident highlights the strategic importance of advanced missile defence systems in regions experiencing heightened geopolitical tensions.

About the THAAD System

THAAD is an advanced ballistic missile defence system developed by the United States to intercept and destroy short-, medium-, and limited intermediate-range ballistic missiles. It forms a critical component of the U.S. layered missile defence architecture.

The system is designed to neutralise incoming ballistic missiles during the terminal phase of their trajectory, which is the final stage of a missile’s flight before it reaches its target.

Key Features

• High-Altitude Interception
  • THAAD can intercept ballistic missiles at ranges of around 150–200 km.
  • It is capable of destroying targets both inside and outside the Earth’s atmosphere, providing a high-altitude defensive shield.
• Terminal Phase Defence: The system targets missiles during their terminal descent, when the warhead approaches the target area.
• Hit-to-Kill Technology
  • THAAD interceptor missiles rely on kinetic energy to destroy targets through direct impact, rather than using explosive warheads.
  • This improves accuracy and reduces the risk of collateral damage.
• Integrated Radar and Command System: The system uses powerful radar and command-and-control networks to detect, track, and engage incoming missile threats.

Global Deployment

Several countries have adopted THAAD as part of their missile defence strategies.

• The United Arab Emirates became the first foreign buyer in 2011.
• Saudi Arabia later procured the system to strengthen its air and missile defence capabilities.

These deployments reflect increasing concerns in the region regarding ballistic missile threats.

India’s Missile Defence Choice

While evaluating missile defence options, India chose the S-400 Triumf from Russia instead of acquiring the THAAD system from the United States.

The S-400 provides multi-layered air defence capabilities, including interception of aircraft, drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles at longer ranges.