The US Army’s Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system exemplifies advanced ballistic missile defense technology, integrating sophisticated radar capabilities and interoperability with existing systems.

Central to THAAD's effectiveness is the Army Navy Transportable Radar Surveillance (AN/TPY-2) system.

This mobile, high-resolution X-band radar operates in two modes. In its Forward-Based Mode, the system detects ballistic missiles after they have been launched. Meanwhile, its Terminal Mode focuses the radar on the terminal phase of a missile's trajectory and guides THAAD interceptors to strike incoming projectiles.

The AN/TPY-2 ensures comprehensive coverage through its ability to track targets at up to 3,000km away.

The radar can also accept cues from the Aegis missile defense system, satellites, and other external sensors to broaden its coverage.

A standard THAAD battery comprises six truck-mounted launchers that each carry eight interceptor missiles, for a total of 48 interceptors per battery. It also includes a Tactical Fire Control/Communications component.

Its interceptors can engage ballistic missiles coming from a short range (up to 1,000km) and medium range (1,000-3,000km), and some from intermediate range (5,000km). The mobility of each launcher enables rapid repositioning and responsiveness in dynamic threat environments.

Complementary integration

THAAD is designed to complement other ballistic missile defense systems, most notably the ground-based Patriot system and the ship-mounted Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) system found on US cruisers and destroyers.

This interoperability across systems allows for a multilayered missile defense approach and protects against a broad range of aerial threats across all threat phases and ranges.

The Patriot System can ward off attacks by short-range or tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, advanced aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles, providing important lower-tier defense against lighter threats that can penetrate outer layers.

Patriots are fully mobile ground-based systems, comprising a command center, a radar station to detect incoming threats and launchers.

Meanwhile, all Arleigh Burke-class destroyers and Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruisers have the Aegis BMD system, an expansion of the Aegis Combat System that enables the ships to intercept ballistic missiles during the midcourse and terminal phases of flight.

THAAD's ability to integrate seamlessly with Aegis and Patriot systems is central to security around the world.

Numerous US allies use Patriot and Aegis systems as integral components of their missile defense systems. The combined mobility of THAAD batteries -- and concomitant mobility of US forces -- means that integrated, multilayered missile defense can be a shared responsibility among defense partners.

This collaborative approach leverages the unique strengths of each layer of missile defense, fostering a unified defense strategy across security partners and underscoring the commitment of partners and allies to mutual protection and shared interests.