THAAD Price: The Powerful US anti-missile defense system costs will leave you in shock! It’s priced at Rs…

THAAD missiles have an operational range of 150 to 200 kilometers (93 to 124 miles), and the system is manufactured by Lockheed Martin, a prominent U.S. defense and aerospace company.

THAAD Price: The United States (US) is sending its advanced anti-missile system — Terminal High-Altitude Area Defence (THAAD) battery, to Israel, along with a US military crew to operate it. An announcement in this regard was made by the Pentagon on Sunday. This move comes in response to a large-scale missile attack by Iran on October 1, during which more than 180 ballistic missiles were launched by Israel. U.S. President Joe Biden emphasized that the purpose of deploying THAAD is to safeguard Israel’s security. As part of the operation, approximately 100 American troops will be stationed, further strengthening the U.S. military presence in the region. Now, let’s take a closer look at the cost of this powerful missile defense system and what makes it so unique.

What is THAAD?

THAAD (Terminal High Altitude Area Defense) is a sophisticated and advanced missile defense system designed to intercept and destroy short-, medium-, and intermediate-range ballistic missiles using a combination of radar technology and interceptors. Its missiles have an operational range of 150 to 200 kilometers (93 to 124 miles), and the system is manufactured by Lockheed Martin, a prominent U.S. defense and aerospace company.

According to the Center for Arms Control and Non-Proliferation, THAAD is capable of intercepting missiles both inside and outside of Earth’s atmosphere during the terminal phase of their flight. This phase begins when the warhead separates and re-enters the atmosphere, continuing until detonation occurs.

Cost of THAAD batteries?

According to an Aljazeera report, the cost of a single THAAD battery ranges from $1 billion to $1.8 billion. An April report by the Congressional Research Service indicates that a typical THAAD battery consists of 95 soldiers, six truck-mounted launchers, and 48 interceptors—eight per launcher. Additionally, it includes one radar system along with a fire control and communications component, Aljazeera reported.

The number of launchers and interceptors can vary in a THAAD battery. THAAD interceptors do not carry explosive warheads, enabling them to ascend to high altitudes swiftly. Instead of detonating upon impact with incoming ballistic missiles, THAAD interceptors utilize kinetic energy—the energy generated by their mass in motion—to neutralize the threat.

The move is aimed at enhancing Israel’s air defence capabilities following what the Pentagon described as “unprecedented attacks” by Iran on April 13 and again on October 1. On October 1, Iran fired at least 200 ground-to-ground missiles towards Israel, activating sirens across the country and sending millions of residents running to shelters. Hours after the Iranian strike, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during a Security Cabinet meeting, said, “Iran made a big mistake tonight, and it will pay for it.”

The Pentagon also pointed out that this is not the region’s first deployment of the THAAD system. Last year, the US sent a THAAD battery to the Middle East following the October 7 attacks to defend US troops and regional interests. Additionally, the US deployed a THAAD battery to Israel in 2019 for training and an integrated air defence exercise.