Deepshikha Maan, Jadetimes Staff
D. Maan is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Asia
U.S. Deploys THAAD Missile Defense System to Israel
The Pentagon has confirmed the deployment of a high altitude anti-missile system operated by U.S. troops to Israel. This Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery aims to enhance Israeli air defenses following a missile attack by Iran earlier this month.
President Joe Biden stated that the deployment is intended "to defend Israel," which is anticipated to respond to an Iranian strike involving over 180 ballistic missiles fired at the country on October 1. This move has garnered significant attention, as it entails the presence of U.S. military personnel in Israel.
While a small number of U.S. forces are already stationed in Israel, the arrival of approximately 100 additional troops signifies increased U.S. involvement in the escalating regional conflict. Observers are closely analyzing this development for insights into the effectiveness of Israel’s missile defense systems as tensions rise.
Israel has yet to retaliate for the Iranian attack, but Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has promised a response that will be "lethal, precise, and above all, surprising." Tehran claimed its missile attack was a response to the assassination of Hassan Nasrallah, the leader of Hezbollah, in Beirut.
Deployment Details
The Pentagon reported that an advance team and the necessary components for the THAAD battery arrived in Israel on Monday, with additional personnel and equipment expected in the coming days. The battery is projected to be operational in the "near future." Israeli journalist Avi Scharf noted that two C 17 U.S. military transport planes flew from Alabama to Nevatim Air Force Base, likely carrying THAAD equipment.
It remains uncertain whether this deployment addresses identified gaps in Israel's aerial defenses or reflects growing concerns in Washington regarding a more aggressive Israeli response to Iran. President Biden has opposed attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities or energy infrastructure, fearing they could escalate conflicts and impact the global economy.
Implications for U.S. Israeli Relations
This deployment highlights Israel's increasing reliance on U.S. defense support amid the intensifying conflict in the Middle East. Iranian ballistic missiles, such as the Fattah 1 used in the recent attack, are fired at high altitudes and can change trajectory before descending on targets, making them particularly challenging to intercept.
The THAAD system, manufactured by Lockheed Martin, is designed to effectively counter ballistic missiles. It consists of six truck mounted launchers, each capable of launching eight interceptors, and operates with a crew of around 100. The system costs approximately $1 billion and is in high demand globally, including interest from Ukraine and Saudi Arabia.
While Israel boasts a sophisticated air defense system, including the Arrow 2 and Arrow 3 missiles developed in collaboration with the U.S., the recent Iranian strikes have raised concerns about its effectiveness. Satellite imagery has revealed damage at Nevatim Air Force Base, raising questions about the operational capacity of Israel's defenses.
The Bigger Picture
The Biden administration has consistently reaffirmed its commitment to Israel's security, providing over 50,000 tons of military aid in the past year alone. However, this support underscores the complexities of U.S. foreign policy, as Washington seeks to balance diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions while simultaneously backing its ally's military actions.
Following Iran's missile attacks, which were prompted by Israeli actions against key figures in Hamas and Hezbollah, tensions have escalated. Israel has maintained that its military actions are necessary to neutralize threats from Hezbollah and to ensure the safety of its northern regions.
The Pentagon describes the THAAD deployment as part of broader adjustments in U.S. military operations to support Israel and protect American personnel from Iranian aggression. Notably, the last known deployment of THAAD to Israel was during a military exercise in 2019.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi cautioned that the presence of U.S. troops operating missile systems in Israel could endanger their lives.
