For the first time since its deployment in Israel, the US made THAAD (Terminal High Altitude Area Defense) air defense system intercepted a missile launched by the Houthis from Yemen towards Israeli territory overnight.
During footage of the interception, an American soldier can be heard saying after the interceptor's launch, "I've waited 18 years for this moment."
According to Israeli media, the U.S.-supplied THAAD air defense system participated last night in intercepting a ballistic missile launched from Yemen toward Tel Aviv. This is believed to be THAAD's first-ever use in real combat. pic.twitter.com/077z5xvn6Z
— VolgaLad (@cym27s) December 27, 2024
The advanced system was positioned to bolster Israel's capabilities in intercepting ballistic missiles and defending against potential threats, such as attacks from Iran. For several years, a joint exercise known as Juniper Cobra has been conducted between the US and Israel. Held every two years, this drill allows both militaries to practice the deployment of air defense systems on Israeli soil, strengthening the operational capabilities of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
The THAAD system, developed by Lockheed Martin, is an advanced interception system for countering short, medium, and long-range ballistic missiles. With a flawless record of 100% successful intercepts in tests, it is capable of neutralizing targets both inside and outside the atmosphere. The system comprises five main components: launchers, radar, command and control units, and support equipment.
