THAAD and Israeli Arrow Systems Successfully Intercept Houthi Missile Targeting Israel

In a significant military development, the U.S. Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system, along with Israel's Arrow defense system, successfully intercepted a missile fired by the Houthi rebels from Yemen on Friday morning. This marks the first operational use of the THAAD system in Israel, which was deployed in October as part of preparations for potential Iranian missile threats.

The intercepted Houthi missile was shot down before crossing Israeli territory, showcasing the advanced capabilities of the U.S.-Israeli missile defense collaboration. Footage from the interception shows an American soldier exclaiming, “I’ve waited 18 years for this,” emphasizing the long-awaited nature of the deployment.

The THAAD system, developed by Lockheed Martin, is designed to intercept short- and medium-range ballistic missiles in their final flight stages, utilizing a "hit-to-kill" method without relying on warheads. The system's radar can track missiles from over 2,000 kilometers away and intercept targets within a 200-kilometer range, at altitudes as high as 150 kilometers.

The missile interception occurred after Israel struck multiple Houthi targets in Yemen, including military infrastructure at Sanaa International Airport, in retaliation for ongoing missile attacks. The attack underscores the mounting tensions between Israel and Iran-backed forces, including the Houthis, who have increasingly posed a threat to Israel’s security.

The U.S. has signed multi-billion-dollar arms deals with Israel, including upgrades to military infrastructure, ensuring the continued protection of Israel and its allies from missile threats, particularly those from Iran and its allied militias.