Misbar’s Analysis
The THAAD (Terminal High Altitude Area Defense) system was developed by the United States and is currently used by only a few countries. It can intercept and destroy ballistic missiles before they reach their targets. Unlike traditional missile defense systems, THAAD does not use explosives but relies on the kinetic energy of impact to perform its mission.
What Is the THAAD Missile Defense System?
The American company Lockheed Martin has explained that the THAAD (Terminal High Altitude Area Defense) missile system is designed to defend regions against ballistic missile attacks launched by hostile states or entities.
In 2024, images circulated on social media claiming to depict the arrival of the first THAAD system in Israel. However, a fact-check by Misbar revealed the claim to be misleading, as the images were from 2017. This indicates they predate the Operation Al-Aqsa Flood battle and the subsequent developments.
What Is the Difference Between THAAD and Patriot?
The THAAD missile system covers a much wider geographic range than the Patriot system. These two systems are designed to complement each other, working together to deliver maximum protection in regions under U.S. military control or in areas where the U.S. deploys or sells them.
Is Israel Using the THAAD System?
As of 2024, Israel is using the THAAD system, operated by the U.S. military, to counter potential missile threats from Iran. This system works alongside Israel's primary missile defense systems, which include:
- Iron Dome: The Iron Dome is Israel's lowest-tier missile defense system. It consists of 10 batteries, each equipped with three to four maneuverable missiles.
- David's Sling: The David's Sling system can intercept hostile missiles at a range of about 300 kilometers. It is a joint project between an Israeli defense company and the American company Raytheon.
- Arrow (Hetz): Known in Arabic as "Al-Sahm" (The Arrow), this system's missiles are equipped with warheads designed to destroy incoming ballistic missiles during their terminal phase within the atmosphere. Some versions are capable of intercepting missiles in space, much like the THAAD system.
In 2024, an image circulated online, claiming to show a Hezbollah missile intercepting an Iron Dome missile. However, a fact-check by Misbar verified the details of this claim and found it to be misleading. The image actually shows the Iron Dome intercepting a Palestinian resistance missile launched from Gaza the previous year.
How Effective Is the Thaad Missile System in Air Defense?
Upon reviewing the THAAD missile defense system and its features, it becomes evident that it is one of the most effective air defense systems in the world today. Below is a list of the most effective systems, according to available statistics for 2024:
- S-400 Triumf System: Developed by Russia, the S-400 Triumf system has a maximum range of 400 kilometers, making it one of the most effective missile defense systems in the world.
- David's Sling System: Ranked second among the world's most effective missile defense systems, David's Sling is used by Israel and has an approximate maximum range of 300 kilometers.
- S-300VM System: The Russian S-300VM system has a range of up to 200 kilometers and is classified as a surface-to-air missile system, securing the third position on the list.
- MIM-104 Patriot System: Although the maximum range of the MIM-104 Patriot system is shorter than that of the previously mentioned systems, it ranks fourth on the list. It is distinguished by its all-weather defense capabilities at various altitudes.
- THAAD System: The THAAD missile system effectively intercepts ballistic missiles with a range of approximately 200 kilometers, securing the fifth position among the world’s most effective missile defense systems.
- HQ-9 System: Manufactured and developed by the People's Republic of China, the HQ-9 system has a range of 125 kilometers, placing it sixth on the list, just after the American THAAD system.
- Aster 30 SAMP/T System: The Aster 30 SAMP/T is a long-range surface-to-air missile system with a range of up to 100 kilometers, earning it the seventh position on the list due to its high effectiveness.
- MEADS System: The Medium Extended Air Defense System (MEADS) has a maximum range of 40 kilometers and ranks eighth among the most effective missile defense systems.
- Barak 8 System: Developed jointly by Israel and India, the Barak 8 system ranks ninth on the list, with a maximum range of 16 kilometers.
- Iron Dome System: Used by Israel in conjunction with several other missile defense systems, the Iron Dome ranks tenth on the list, with a maximum range of 70 kilometers.
Who Is Armed With the THAAD Missile Defense System?
Israel may have been the latest country to acquire the THAAD system in 2024, following a missile strike from Iran. Several other countries also possess the system, with the United States — the developer of THAAD — leading the way and facilitating its sale to other nations.
The United Arab Emirates has purchased the THAAD system, which is also used by the United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey. Additionally, the United States has deployed it in South Korea to counter missile threats from North Korea. This shows that only a small number of countries possess and operate the system.
What Are the Key Benefits of the THAAD Missile Defense System?
The THAAD system boasts numerous features and capabilities that make it one of the most effective missile defense systems against ballistic threats worldwide. Below are some of its key advantages:
- Intercept capability: Developed by the United States, THAAD can intercept ballistic missiles both within and beyond the Earth's atmosphere, providing a versatile defense solution.
- Compatibility with other systems: THAAD is highly adaptable and can work seamlessly with other missile defense systems, further enhancing its effectiveness in countering ballistic missile threats.
- Mobility and deployment: The THAAD missile system is highly mobile compared to many similar systems and can be easily deployed across various regions worldwide.
- Advanced radar technology: THAAD is equipped with a powerful, long-range radar that significantly enhances its ability to detect and intercept ballistic missiles within its operational range.
- Kinetic kill technology: Unlike traditional missile systems, THAAD uses kinetic energy to destroy ballistic missiles, eliminating the need for explosive warheads during interception both inside and outside the atmosphere.
- High precision control: The THAAD system offers exceptional precision in targeting and destroying incoming missiles, maximizing its effectiveness as a missile defense solution.
What Are the Key Components of the American THAAD Missile System?
In addition to explaining the functionality of the THAAD missile system, experts emphasize its key components, which enable it to intercept ballistic missiles with exceptional efficiency. The system includes six mobile launch platforms, each equipped with eight launchers, totaling 48 launchers in all.
The THAAD system is equipped with 48 interceptor missiles, with one missile for each launcher. A key component is its advanced radar, which operates on X-band radio waves within a frequency range of 8-12 GHz. In addition to these elements, the system includes a launch control unit and support equipment. All components work together seamlessly to effectively intercept and destroy hostile ballistic missiles.
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