In a first, US anti-missile THAAD system used in Israel to counter attacks from Yemen

A US military anti-missile system was deployed in Israel to intercept a projectile for the first time, Reuters quoted a source familiar with the matter as saying in a report on Friday (December 27).

The Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system was used to target a projectile fired from Yemen within the past 24 hours, the source said, reportedly speaking on condition of anonymity. An analysis is underway to determine whether the interception was successful.

Escalation of regional tensions

The interception attempt came after Israel carried out strikes on multiple targets linked to Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi movement on Thursday (December 26), including Sanaa International Airport. Houthi media reported at least six fatalities from the strikes.

The Houthis have frequently launched drones and missiles toward Israel, describing their actions as solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza amid the ongoing conflict.

At least five ballistic missiles have been launched at central Israel over the past 10 days, including one early on Christmas morning, Financial Times reported.

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On two occasions, Israeli air defences did not fully intercept the incoming missiles; one struck a school, and another hit a playground in the Tel Aviv area, injuring 16 people.

US deployment of THAAD to Israel

President Joe Biden ordered the deployment of the THAAD system, a mobile, ground-based missile defence platform,  to Israel in October, along with approximately 100 US troops, to bolster the country’s defences.

Manufactured by Lockheed Martin, THAAD is a key component of the US military’s layered air defence strategy and enhances Israel’s already robust anti-missile systems. THAAD has been deployed by the United States and its allies in various regions, including South Korea, and the United Arab Emirates to bolster defence against potential missile threats.

Each THAAD battery typically includes interceptors, launchers mounted on trucks, a radar system, a fire control unit, and support equipment. The system is fully transportable, according to Lockheed Martin’s website.

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While THAAD is highly effective against certain classes of ballistic missiles, it is not designed to counter all types of missile threats, such as cruise missiles or low-altitude projectiles.

With inputs from agencies