Saudi Arabia activates US made THAAD missile defence system
Saudi Arabia has officially deployed its first Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system, marking a major step in the kingdom’s efforts to bolster its air defense capabilities.
The announcement was made by the Saudi Ministry of Defense following a formal inauguration ceremony held at the Air Defense Forces Institute in Jeddah.
The US-made THAAD system is designed to intercept short- and medium-range ballistic missiles both inside and outside the Earth’s atmosphere. According to Saudi officials, the deployment aims to protect vital infrastructure and strategic areas across the kingdom.
The launch follows extensive testing and training programs conducted within Saudi Arabia. Riyadh is now the second Gulf country, after the United Arab Emirates, to field the advanced missile defense system. The UAE acquired its first THAAD batteries in 2011, which became operational in 2016. Qatar is also set to receive THAAD systems as part of a USD 42 billion US arms deal announced during US President Donald Trump’s regional tour.
The US approved the sale of THAAD to Saudi Arabia in 2019 as part of a broader USD 110 billion arms agreement signed during Trump’s first term. In 2022, Saudi Arabia also struck a deal with Lockheed Martin to manufacture components for the system, including interceptor launchers and canisters, though a production start date has not been disclosed.
Meanwhile, Newsweek reported that the THAAD system, currently deployed in countries including 'Israel', South Korea, Japan, and Taiwan, has faced performance issues. The magazine noted that the US depleted nearly 20 percent of its global THAAD missile stockpile while supporting 'Israel' during a recent 12-day conflict with Iran.
Despite its reputation, the system has reportedly struggled to intercept missiles fired from Iran and Yemen toward occupied territories.
The deployment of THAAD in Saudi Arabia comes amid heightened regional tensions and growing concerns over ballistic missile threats from neighboring countries, including Iran.
