For the first time, Israel activated the American-made Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system to intercept a ballistic missile fired by Houthi rebels in Yemen. The missile, launched on December 29, was aimed at Israel as part of an ongoing series of attacks by the Iran-backed group.
The incident marked a significant moment in Israel’s defense capabilities, as the THAAD system, deployed in October by the United States, successfully engaged the missile. Footage shared on social media showed the launch of an interceptor missile, accompanied by the voice of a U.S. soldier expressing excitement, saying, “Eighteen years I’ve been waiting for this.”
The missile interception was confirmed by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), although they did not specify whether the THAAD system or an Israeli-made system was used. However, sources told Walla news that the THAAD system had indeed intercepted the missile.
The THAAD system is designed to protect against short-, medium-, and intermediate-range ballistic missiles. Its unique capability lies in using kinetic energy to neutralize incoming missiles by physically destroying them on impact, without the need for an explosive warhead. Each THAAD battery typically includes six truck-mounted launchers, capable of launching up to eight interceptors, along with a radar system that can detect threats from up to 3,000 kilometers away.
This missile interception comes after an attack by the Houthis, which is part of a broader conflict in the region. The Houthis have launched over 200 missiles and 170 drones toward Israel in the past year, with most threats either intercepted or falling short. Israel responded to the attack by launching airstrikes on Houthi targets in Yemen, including a power plant and airport infrastructure in the capital, Sanaa.
The Houthis have targeted Ben Gurion Airport, Israel’s primary international airport, as part of their broader strategy. Their actions are linked to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which escalated after Hamas’ attack on Israel in October 2023. The Houthis have also disrupted international shipping, attacking over 100 merchant vessels in the Red Sea and forcing rerouting of shipping lanes.
This use of the THAAD system highlights the evolving defense strategies Israel is employing to protect its borders from multiple missile threats, particularly those posed by regional adversaries like the Houthis.
Sources By Agencies
