The United States European Command (EUCOM) is currently conducting a missile defense system (THAAD) exercise deployment in Israel in order to implement the joint operational concept. The purpose of the deployment is to practice rapid deployment across the globe of complex systems, and to enhance cooperation with the IAF’s Air Defense Systems. The deployment of this American system in Israel emphasizes the US’s commitment to the defense and security of Israel, and is taking place shortly after the joint IDF-US exercise, “Juniper Falcon”.
The IDF is working in cooperation with US forces in order to enhance coordination between the two militaries and to strengthen the ability to defend Israeli airspace. The IDF sees this deployment as an opportunity to practice the integration of advanced American Air Defense Systems in the IAF Air Defense Array.
The THAAD system joins the IDF’s existing Air Defense capabilities against long-range ballistic missiles and is considered to be among the most advanced of its kind in the world. The IDF is grateful for this exercise and stands ready to protect Israel's airspace and civilians against a variety of threats from near and far. This is a defensive deployment that is not related to any specific current event.
Background information:
THAAD: Terminal High Altitude Area Defense -
A mobile ballistic missile interception system that can be deployed rapidly around the world. The system’s specific capabilities depend on variables such as location, range and the attributes of the threat. The system has both endo-atmospheric (inside the atmosphere) and exo-atmospheric (outside the atmosphere) capabilities. The THAAD system uses kinetic energy to intercept missiles.
The system targets several portions of the enemy missile’s flight path as well as other threats.