US to send Israel THAAD missile defence system

Sub: Sci

Sec: Defence

Context:

the United States will send a Terminal High Altitude Area Defence battery (THAAD) and troops to Israel amid its ongoing offensive against the Hezbollah.

Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system:

THAAD system is an advanced anti-ballistic missile defence system developed by the United States.

Key Points about THAAD:

Developed by: United States
Purpose: THAAD is designed to shoot down short, medium, and intermediate-range ballistic missiles during their terminal phase of flight.
Operation: It uses hit-to-kill technology, meaning it destroys incoming missiles by direct collision rather than using an explosive warhead.
Components: The system consists of five major components:
- Launchers
- Interceptors
- Radar
- Fire control unit
- Support equipment
Range: THAAD can intercept missiles both inside and outside the Earth’s atmosphere, at altitudes up to 150 km.
Deployment: It’s mobile and can be rapidly deployed to conflict zones.
International use: While developed by the US, THAAD has been sold or deployed to several allies, including South Korea, Israel, and the United Arab Emirates.
Limitations: While highly effective against ballistic missiles, THAAD is not designed to counter cruise missiles or shorter-range rockets.

Source: HT