US Defense Chief Says THAAD Missile Defense System Is Fully Operational In Israel Amid Rising Tensions

In a major development, the United States has deployed its advanced THAAD anti-missile defense system to Israel, where it is now “in place,” according to US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. Speaking to reporters on Monday before his arrival in Ukraine, Austin confirmed the system’s readiness, although he did not specify whether it was fully operational yet.

THAAD, or Terminal High Altitude Area Defense, is crucial to the US military’s layered air defense strategy. It is designed to intercept and destroy short- to intermediate-range ballistic missiles and will bolster Israel’s already robust anti-missile defenses.

“The THAAD system is in place,” Austin said, emphasizing that while it could be activated quickly, the system was on schedule with the Pentagon’s expectations. The deployment comes in response to rising tensions after Iran launched 200 ballistic missiles at Israel earlier this month, heightening fears of an Iranian reaction to a potential Israeli counterstrike.

“It’s hard to say exactly what Israel’s strike will look like,” Austin remarked, noting that Israel would ultimately determine the nature of any retaliation. The defense chief also stressed the US efforts to de-escalate the situation, stating, “We’re going to continue to do everything we can to dial down the tensions.”

Reports have already surfaced suggesting that the THAAD system may be operational, with Israeli sources and the Saudi-owned Al Arabiya network indicating that several batteries are active. Around 100 US troops are expected to operate the system, which offers broader defensive coverage than the Patriot system and can engage threats at distances up to 200 kilometers (124 miles).

The US deployment aims to shield Israel from any further missile strikes, particularly from Iran, while diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation remain ongoing.