Terminal High Altitude Area Defense

File:Wfm thaad diagram.svg

The THAAD missile defense concept was proposed in 1987, with a formal request for proposals submitted to industry in 1991.{{Cite web |last=U.S. Naval Institute Staff |date=17 October 2024 |title=Report to Congress on the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense System |url=https://news.usni.org/2024/10/17/report-to-congress-on-the-terminal-high-altitude-area-defense-thaad-system |website=U.S. Naval Institute News}} The THAAD program benefited from results of previous missile defense efforts like High Endoatmospheric Defense Interceptor (HEDI) and the Kinetic Kill Vehicle Integrated Technology Experiment (KITE).{{cite web|url=https://archive.org/details/theaterhighaltit00atki|title=The Theater High Altitude Area Defense program: an interim examination of its acquisition strategy|first=James W.|last=Atkinson|date=13 August 1996|publisher=Monterey, California: Naval Postgraduate School;Springfield, Va.: Available from National Technical Information Service|via=Internet Archive}} In September 1992, the US Army selected Lockheed, now Lockheed Martin, as the prime contractor for THAAD development.

Prior to the development of a physical prototype, the Aero-Optical Effect (AOE) software code was developed to validate the intended operational profile of Lockheed's proposed design. In April 1995, the first THAAD flight test occurred , with all flight tests in the demonstration-validation (DEM-VAL) program phase occurring at White Sands Missile Range. The first six intercept attempts missed the target (Flights 4–9). The first successful intercepts were conducted on 10 June 1999 and 2 August 1999, against Hera missiles.

The vulnerability and lethality analyses of THAAD have been conducted by the U.S. Army Research Laboratory (ARL). The vulnerability assessment for the THAAD featured an evaluation of the effects of major electromagnetic elements. This included EM interference, EM radiation operations, EM radiation hazards, EM pulse, electrostatic discharge, and lightning effects on components of the THAAD system.{{Cite web|date=March 1, 2011|title=Envisioning the Army of the Future, 1998-2001|url=https://arl.devcom.army.mil/who-we-are/|access-date=August 17, 2018|website=United States Army Research Laboratory}}

The ARL assessments were designed to determine the THAAD system's growth potential given its tactical design as well as provide survivability analysis against threats such as conventional weapons, chemical weapons, and electronic warfare countermeasures.{{Cite journal|date=January 1999|title=Army Research Laboratory. 1999 Annual Review|url=http://www.dtic.mil/docs/citations/ADA383167|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170611070419/http://www.dtic.mil/docs/citations/ADA383167|url-status=dead|archive-date=11 June 2017|journal=Army Research Laboratory|via=Defense Technical Information Center}} The data collected from the analyses were used to develop trajectory models for targets and missile as well as target trajectories using infrared scene generation of infrared countermeasures (IRCMs).

The THAAD system is being designed, built, and integrated by Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control acting as prime contractor. Key subcontractors include Raytheon, Boeing, Aerojet Rocketdyne, Honeywell, BAE Systems, Oshkosh Defense, and MiltonCAT.{{Cite news |last1=Barnes |first1=Julian E. |last2=Entous |first2=Adam |date=2013-04-03 |title=U.S. to Send Missile-Defense Battery to Guam |language=en-US |work=Wall Street Journal |url=http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424127887323916304578400700347158398.html |access-date= |issn=0099-9660}}

File:THAAD_Pacific_Missile_Range.ogv, 25 June 2008]]

In June 2000, Lockheed won the Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) contract to turn the design into a mobile tactical army fire unit. In 2006, flight tests of this system resumed with missile characterization and full system tests at White Sands Missile Range, then moved to the Pacific Missile Range Facility. The Interceptor was led through development and initial production by Tory Bruno, who later became the CEO of United Launch Alliance.

Lockheed is pushing for funding for the development of an extended-range (ER) version of the THAAD, to counter maturing threats posed by hypersonic glide vehicles that adversaries may deploy, namely the Chinese WU-14, to penetrate the gap between low- and high-altitude missile defenses. The company performed static fire trials of a modified THAAD booster in 2006 and continued to fund the project until 2008. The current {{convert|14.5|in|cm|abbr=on}}-diameter single-stage booster design would be expanded to a {{convert|21|in|cm|abbr=on}} first stage for greater range with a second "kick stage", to close the distance to the target and provide improved velocity at burnout and more lateral movement during an engagement.{{Cite web|url=https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/landwarfareintl/lockheed-martin-providing-thaad-us-and-saudi-arabi/|title=Lockheed Martin providing THAAD to US and Saudi Arabia - Land Warfare - Shephard Media|date=2 April 2019|website=www.shephardmedia.com|language=en|access-date=2020-03-20}}

Although the kill vehicle would not need redesign, the ground-based launcher would have only five missiles instead of eight. As of 2020, THAAD-ER is only an industry concept, but Lockheed believes that the Missile Defense Agency will show interest because of the weapons under development by potential adversaries.{{Cite web |date=8 January 2015 |title=China's Hypersonic Ambitions Prompt Thaad-ER Push {{!}} Aviation Week Network |url=https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/chinas-hypersonic-ambitions-prompt-thaad-er-push |access-date= |website=aviationweek.com}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/landwarfareintl/lockheed-martin-providing-thaad-us-and-saudi-arabi/|title=Lockheed Martin providing THAAD to US and Saudi Arabia - Land Warfare - Shephard Media|date=2 April 2019|website=www.shephardmedia.com|language=en|access-date=2020-03-20}} If funding for the THAAD-ER begins in 2020, a system could be produced by 2024 to provide an interim capability against a rudimentary hypersonic threat. The Pentagon is researching whether other technologies like directed energy weapons and railguns are better solutions for missile defense. These are expected to become available in the mid to late 2020s.{{Cite web |date=20 January 2015 |title=Thaad-ER In Search Of A Mission {{!}} Aviation Week Network |url=https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/thaad-er-search-mission |access-date= |website=Aviation Week}}

File:THAAD-USArmy-MovedthrughC-17.jpg.]]

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Sometimes called Kinetic Kill technology, the THAAD missile destroys missiles by colliding with them, using hit-to-kill technology, like the MIM-104 Patriot PAC-3, although the PAC-3 also contains a small explosive warhead. This is unlike the Patriot PAC-2, which carried only an explosive warhead detonated using a proximity fuze. Although the actual figures are classified, THAAD missiles have an estimated range of 125 miles (200 km), and can reach an altitude of 93 miles (150 km). A THAAD battery consists of at least six{{cite news |last=Lamothe |first=Dan |date=7 March 2017 |title=U.S. military deploys advanced defensive missile system to South Korea, citing North Korean threat |newspaper=The Washington Post |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/checkpoint/wp/2017/03/06/u-s-military-deploys-advanced-defensive-missile-system-to-south-korea-citing-north-korean-threat/}} launcher vehicles, each equipped with eight missiles, with two mobile tactical operations centers (TOCs) and the AN/TPY-2 ground-based radar (GBR).{{Cite web |date=2 January 2015 |title=U.S. Army has received the latest upgrade for THAAD air defense missile system |url=http://www.armyrecognition.com/armies_in_the_world_analysis_focus/u.s._army_has_received_the_latest_upgrade_for_thaad_air_defense_missile_system_0201151.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150104205445/http://www.armyrecognition.com/armies_in_the_world_analysis_focus/u.s._army_has_received_the_latest_upgrade_for_thaad_air_defense_missile_system_0201151.html |archive-date=4 January 2015 |website=Army Recognition}}

The U.S. Army plans to field at least six THAAD batteries, at a purchase cost of US$800 million per battery.{{Cite web |last=Sisk |first=Richard |date=18 March 2017 |title=Amid Tough Talk on North Korea, US Wants More THAAD Interceptors |url=https://www.defensetech.org/2017/03/18/thaad-interceptors-added-defense-budget/ |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170319162914/https://www.defensetech.org/2017/03/18/thaad-interceptors-added-defense-budget/ |archive-date=19 March 2017 |access-date=1 April 2017 |website=Defense Tech}} In September 2018, the MDA planned to deliver 52 more interceptors to the Army. In June 2020 the Senate Armed Services Committee draft of the FY2021 DoD budget allocated funding for the eighth THAAD battery.{{Cite web |last=Freedberg Jr |first=Sydney J. |date=24 June 2020 |title=SASC Trims Hypersonics & Robot Ships, Boosts Ships & F-35 |url=https://breakingdefense.com/2020/06/sasc-trims-hypersonics-robot-ships-boosts-ships-f-35/ |website=Breaking Defense}}

The THAAD missile is manufactured at a Lockheed Martin facility near Troy, Alabama. The facility performs final integration, assembly and testing of the THAAD missile. The THAAD Radar is an X-Band active electronically scanned array Radar developed and built by Raytheon at its Andover, Massachusetts Integrated Air Defense Facility. The THAAD radar and a variant developed as a forward sensor for ICBM missile defense, the Forward-Based X-Band – Transportable (FBX-T) radar, were assigned a common designator, AN/TPY-2,{{cite web |title=Raytheon: Army Navy/Transportable Radar Surveillance (AN/TPY-2) |url=http://www.raytheon.com/capabilities/products/antpy2/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130705184238/http://www.raytheon.com/capabilities/products/antpy2/ |archive-date=5 July 2013 |publisher=Raytheon Corporate}} in late 2006/early 2007. The THAAD radar can interoperate with Aegis and Patriot systems, in a 3-layer antimissile defense.{{Cite web |date=November 2016 |title=THAAD on the Korean Peninsula |url=https://isdp.eu/publication/korea-thaad/ |access-date=9 April 2017 |website=isdp.eu |quote=THAAD is inter-operable with other BMDS, making it possible to have an integrated air and missile defense system. THAAD can also be used against weapons of mass destruction, i.e., chemical, nuclear and biological warheads.}}{{Cite web |last1=Sauter |first1=Dan |last2=Kazianis |first2=Harry J. |date=19 November 2014 |title=THAAD: America's Super Shield against Ballistic Missiles? |url=https://nationalinterest.org/feature/thaad-americas-super-shield-against-ballistic-missiles-11701 |access-date=9 April 2017 |website=The National Interest}}

On 28 May 2008, the U.S. Army activated Alpha Battery, 4th Air Defense Artillery Regiment (A-4),Unit numbering: e.g., "Battery D, 2nd Air Defense Artillery Regiment" would abbreviate as 'D-2' on its guidon 11th Air Defense Artillery Brigade at Fort Bliss, Texas. Battery A-4 is part of the 32nd Army Air & Missile Defense Command. At the time, the battery had 24 THAAD interceptors, three THAAD launchers based on the M1120 HEMTT Load Handling System, a THAAD Fire Control and a THAAD radar. Full fielding began in 2009.{{Cite press release |date=28 May 2008 |title=First Battery of THAAD Weapon System Activated at Fort Bliss |url=https://news.lockheedmartin.com/2008-05-28-First-Battery-of-THAAD-Weapon-System-Activated-at-Fort-Bliss |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210729010500/https://news.lockheedmartin.com/2008-05-28-First-Battery-of-THAAD-Weapon-System-Activated-at-Fort-Bliss |archive-date=29 July 2021 |website=Lockheed Martin |access-date=17 April 2024}} In October 2009, the U.S. Army and the Missile Defense Agency activated the second Terminal High Altitude Area Defense Battery, Alpha Battery, 2nd Air Defense Artillery Regiment (A-2), at Fort Bliss.{{Cite web |date=16 October 2009 |title=Second Battery of Lockheed Martin's THAAD Weapon System Activated at Fort Bliss |url=http://www.reuters.com/article/2009/10/16/idUS152750+16-Oct-2009+PRN20091016 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120907175137/http://www.reuters.com/article/pressRelease/idUS152750+16-Oct-2009+PRN20091016 |archive-date=7 September 2012 |access-date=20 October 2009 |website=Reuters}}

In August 2012, Lockheed received a $150 million contract from the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) to produce THAAD Weapon System launchers and fire control and communications equipment for the U.S. Army. The contract included 12 launchers, two fire control and communications units, and support equipment. The contract provided six launchers for THAAD Battery 5 and an additional three launchers each to Batteries 1 and 2. These deliveries will bring all batteries to the standard six launcher configuration.{{Cite press release |date=15 August 2012 |title=Lockheed Martin Receives $150 Million Contract To Produce THAAD Weapon System Equipment For The U.S. Army |url=https://news.lockheedmartin.com/2012-08-15-Lockheed-Martin-Receives-150-Million-Contract-To-Produce-THAAD-Weapon-System-Equipment-For-The-U-S-Army |website=Lockheed Martin |access-date=17 April 2024}}

In May 2017, the Pentagon proposed spending $7.9 billion in its FY 2018 budget on missile defense, which includes THAAD interceptors and Patriot interceptors, along with $1.5 billion for Ground-based Midcourse Defense (GMD) against intercontinental ballistic missiles.{{Cite web |last=Burns |first=Robert |title=Leery of N. Korea, U.S. plans 1st test to shoot down intercontinental-range missile |url=https://eu.usatoday.com/story/news/2017/05/29/leery-north-korea-us-plans-first-test-icbm-intercept/102284770/ |access-date=28 May 2017 |website=USA Today}}

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In 2012, the U.S. AN/TPY-2 early missile warning radar station on Mt. Keren in the Negev desert was the only active foreign military installation in Israel.{{Cite web |last1=Vick |first1=Karl |last2=Aaron J. |first2=Klein |date=30 May 2012 |title=How a U.S. Radar Station in the Negev Affects a Potential Israel-Iran Clash |url=http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0%2C8599%2C2115955%2C00.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120530100406/http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,2115955,00.html |archive-date=30 May 2012 |website=Time Magazine}}

In March 2019, Bravo Battery, 2nd Air Defense Artillery Regiment (B-2 THAAD), 11th Air Defense Artillery Brigade{{usurped|1=[https://web.archive.org/web/20190321133329/http://fortblissbugle.com/2019/03/20/b-2-thaad-deploys-to-israel-11th-ada-bde-unit-participates-in-joint-rapid-deployment-exercise/ David Burge (20 March 2019) B-2 THAAD deploys to Israel: 11th ADA Bde. unit participates in joint rapid deployment exercise]}} was deployed at Nevatim Airbase during a joint US-Israeli drill, after which it moved to an undisclosed location in the Negev desert in southern Israel.{{Cite web |last=Julian |first=Hana Levi |date=4 March 2019 |title=US Army Deploys THAAD, Most Advanced Aerial Defense System, in Southern Israel |url=https://www.jewishpress.com/news/us-news/us-army-deploys-thaad-most-advanced-aerial-defense-system-in-southern-israel/2019/03/04/ |website=The Jewish Press}} The X-Band radar system, which is part of the THAAD system, has been deployed at Nevatim since 2008.{{Cite web |last1=Harel |first1=Amos |last2=Kubovich |first2=Yaniv |last3=Landau |first3=Noa |date=4 March 2019 |title=In First, U.S. Deploys THAAD Missile Defense System in Israel in Joint Drill |url=https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/.premium-in-first-u-s-deploys-thaad-missile-defense-in-israel-in-joint-drill-1.6989919 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211206162458/https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/.premium-in-first-u-s-deploys-thaad-missile-defense-in-israel-in-joint-drill-1.6989919 |archive-date=6 December 2021 |website=Haaretz}}

On 13 October 2024, President Biden directed Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin to authorize the deployment of a THAAD battery to Israel to "help bolster Israel's air defenses following Iran's unprecedented attacks against Israel on April 13 and again on October 1."{{Cite web |title=Statement by Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder on the Deployment of a THAAD Bat |url=https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3934493/statement-by-pentagon-press-secretary-maj-gen-pat-ryder-on-the-deployment-of-a/ |access-date=2024-10-14 |website=U.S. Department of Defense |language=en-US}}

On 27 December 2024, a THAAD battery conducted a successful combat interception of a ballistic missile fired from Yemen.{{Cite web |last1=Altman |first1=Howard |last2=Ziezulewicz |first2=Geoff |date=2024-12-27 |title=U.S. Army's First Combat Use Of THAAD Missile Defense System Just Occurred In Israel |url=https://www.twz.com/land/u-s-armys-first-combat-use-of-thaad-missile-defense-system-just-occurred-in-israel |access-date=2025-03-05 |website=The War Zone |language=en-US}}

On 4 May 2025, Israeli sources told the BBC that a THAAD battery had, along with the Arrow system, failed to intercept a hypersonic missile fired at Ben Gurion Airport from Yemen.{{Cite web |date=2025-05-04 |title=Netanyahu vows response after Houthi missile hits near Israel's main airport |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cyvqr00278no |access-date=2025-05-08 |website=BBC News |language=en-GB}}

In 2019, while the Aegis Ashore at NSF Deveselu was being upgraded, B Battery, 62nd Air Defense Artillery Regiment (B-62 THAAD), was emplaced in NSF Deveselu, Romania during the interim.{{Cite web |last=Epperson |first=Jason |date=23 May 2019 |title=US deploys THAAD anti-missile system in first deployment to Romania |url=https://www.army.mil/article/222181/us_deploys_thaad_anti_missile_system_in_first_deployment_to_romania |website=army.mil}}{{cite news |date=9 August 2019 |title=NATO a finalizat actualizarea tehnică a sistemului de apărare antibalistică AEGIS de la Deveselu |language=ro |work=Radio Free Europe |url=https://romania.europalibera.org/a/nato-a-finalizat-actualizarea-tehnica-a-sistemului-de-aparare-antibalistica-aegis-de-la-deveselu/30101728.html}}

File:Two THAAD launchers arriving in South Korea in March 2017.jpg

{{main|China–South Korea relations#Deployment of THAAD in South Korea}}

{{see also|North Korea and weapons of mass destruction|2017–18 North Korea crisis}}

In October 2013, the South Korean military asked the Pentagon to provide information on the THAAD system concerning prices and capabilities as part of efforts to strengthen defenses against North Korean ballistic missiles.{{Cite web |date=18 October 2013 |title=Army of South Korea shows interest for the U.S. THAAD Terminal High Altitude Area Defense |url=https://www.armyrecognition.com/october_2013_defense_industry_military_news_uk/army_of_south_korea_shows_interest_for_the_u.s._thaad_terminal_high_altitude_area_defense_1810132.html |website=Army Recognition}} However, South Korean Park Geun-hye administration decided it will develop its own indigenous long-range surface-to-air missile instead of buying the THAAD.{{Cite web |date=3 June 2014 |title=S. Korea to develop indigenous missile defense system instead of adopting THAAD |url=http://english.sina.com/world/2014/0602/705974.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140605070742/http://english.sina.com/world/2014/0602/705974.html |archive-date=5 June 2014 |website=Sina.com}} South Korean Defense Ministry officials previously requested information on the THAAD, as well as other missile interceptors like the Israeli Arrow 3, with the intention of researching systems for domestic technology development rather than for purchase. Officials did however state that American deployment of the THAAD system would help in countering North Korean missile threats.{{Cite web |date=5 June 2014 |title='S.Korea Requested Information on THAAD to Develop L-SAM' |url=http://world.kbs.co.kr/english/news/news_Po_detail.htm?No=103072 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150525160917/http://world.kbs.co.kr/english/news/news_Po_detail.htm?No=103072 |archive-date=25 May 2015 |website=world.kbs.co.kr}}{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Alexander |date=26 March 2017 |title=North Korea's Missile Failure Won't Stop Kim Jong Un Trying to Strike U.S. |url=https://www.nbcnews.com/news/north-korea/north-korea-s-missile-failure-won-t-stop-kim-jong-n736986 |website=NBC News}} In May 2014, the Pentagon revealed it was studying sites to base THAAD batteries in South Korea.{{Cite web |date=29 May 2014 |title=United States Army has a plan to deploy THAAD air defense missile systems in South Korea |url=https://www.armyrecognition.com/may_2014_global_defense_security_news_uk/united_states_army_has_a_plan_to_deploy_thaad_air_defense_missile_systems_in_south_korea_2905141.html |website=Army Recognition}}

The deployment was opposed by China and Russia.{{cite web |author=Kai |first=Jin |date=18 April 2015 |title=The Other Reasons China Wants to Block THAAD Deployment |url=https://thediplomat.com/.../the-other-reasons-china-wants-to-block-thaad-deployment/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200920194249/https://thediplomat.com/2015/04/the-other-reasons-china-wants-to-block-thaad-deployment/ |archive-date=2020-09-20 |access-date=2019-07-04 |publisher=The Diplomat}}{{cite web|url=https://www.cnbc.com/2017/03/17/thaad-anti-missile-system-makes-china-lash-out-at-south-korea.html|title=China lashes out as South Korea puts an American anti-missile system in place|last=Mody|first=Seema|website=CNBC|date=28 April 2017|access-date=4 July 2019|archive-date=3 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190703153034/https://www.cnbc.com/2017/03/17/thaad-anti-missile-system-makes-china-lash-out-at-south-korea.html|url-status=live}}{{cite web |last=Patranobis |first=Sutirtho |date=13 January 2017 |title=China, Russia vow to deploy measures against US missiles in South Korea |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/china-russia-vow-to-deploy-measures-against-us-missiles-in-south-korea/story-LiugES68RAlGEtTlGCGVSI.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200211180417/https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/china-russia-vow-to-deploy-measures-against-us-missiles-in-south-korea/story-LiugES68RAlGEtTlGCGVSI.html |archive-date=11 February 2020 |access-date=4 July 2019 |website=Hindustan Times}}{{Cite web |last=Zhou |first=Laura |date=2016-07-08 |title=China and Russia criticise THAAD missile defence system as destabilising region |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy-defence/article/1987103/china-and-russia-criticise-thaad-missile-defence-system |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190528050745/https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy-defence/article/1987103/china-and-russia-criticise-thaad-missile-defence-system |archive-date=2019-05-28 |access-date=2019-05-28 |website=South China Morning Post |language=en}} In February 2016, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said that having THAAD in South Korea would "shatter the regional strategic balance" and that the system exceeded South Korea's need.{{cite news |last1=Shalal |first1=Andrea |last2=Stewart |first2=Phil |date=25 February 2016 |title=China cites concerns on U.S. missile defense system in South Korea |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-china-north-korea-idUSKCN0VY2C9}} In 2017, a Chinese military official said that the deployment had a negative influence on "bilateral military ties and mutual trust" with the United States.{{cite news |last1=Blanchard |first1=Ben |last2=Martina |first2=Michael |date=17 August 2017 |title=China military criticizes 'wrong' U.S. moves on Taiwan, South China Sea |newspaper=Reuters |editor-last=Perry |editor-first=Michael |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-china-usa-dunford-idUSKCN1AX0EF |editor2-last=Fernandez |editor2-first=Clarence}} Western experts say that the range of THAAD's radar and interceptors should not pose a threat to China, and the U.S. has had similar capabilities in Taiwan and Japan for years.{{Cite web |last=Buckley |first=Chris |date=11 March 2017 |title=Why U.S. Antimissile System in South Korea Worries China |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2017/03/11/world/asia/us-south-korea-thaad-antimissile-system-china.html |access-date=12 March 2017 |website=The New York Times}}

Chinese officials believe that its location in South Korea would allow THAAD's radar to detect Chinese missile launches from behind during their boost phase and differentiate between decoys and warheads, sharing information with the rest of the U.S.-led network. This would erode China's nuclear deterrence, which has a much smaller stockpile compared to the United States and Russia. Missile tests in China usually pointed away from Korea, but that trajectory may also need to be reversed in order to minimize detection by THAAD.{{Cite web |last=Bin |first=Li |date=6 March 2017 |title=The Security Dilemma and THAAD Deployment in the ROK |url=https://www.chinausfocus.com/foreign-policy/2017/0306/14759.html |website=chinausfocus.com}} Chinese officials asked South Korea to downgrade the radar of the missile defence system, but no adjustments were made.{{cite news|last1=Perez|first1=Jane|title=For China, a Missile Defense System in South Korea Spells a Failed Courtship|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2016/07/09/world/asia/south-korea-us-thaad-china.html?_r=0|newspaper=New York Times|access-date=26 September 2016|date=8 July 2016}}

In July 2016, American and South Korean military officials announced the deployment of THAAD system in South Korea, following ballistic missile and nuclear tests by North Korea. Each THAAD unit consists of six truck-mounted launchers, 48 interceptors, a fire control and communications unit, and an AN/TPY-2 radar.{{Cite web |last=Judson |first=Jen |date=8 July 2016 |title=THAAD To Officially Deploy to South Korea |url=https://www.defensenews.com/home/2016/07/08/thaad-to-officially-deploy-to-south-korea/ |website=Defense News}} Seongju County in North Gyeongsang Province was chosen as a THAAD site, partly because it is out of range of North Korean rocket artillery along the DMZ.{{Cite web |last=Seung-woo |first=Kang |date=12 July 2016 |title=Seongju picked as site for THAAD battery |url=https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2016/07/205_209205.html |website=The Korea Times}} This sparked protests from Seongju County residents, who feared that radiation emitted by the AN/TPY-2 radar would impact their health, and damage the region's famed oriental melon crop.{{Cite web |last=Padden |first=Brian |date=15 July 2016 |title=THAAD Radiation Fears Spark South Korean Protests |url=https://www.voanews.com/a/thaad-radition-fears-spark-south-korean-protests/3419467.html |website=Voice of America}} On 30 September 2016, the U.S. and South Korea announced that THAAD would be relocated to the Lotte Skyhill Seongju Country Club, farther from the town's main residential areas and higher in elevation, to alleviate concerns.{{cite web |last1=Chang |first1=Yoo Kyong |last2=Gamel |first2=Kim |date=30 September 2016 |title=THAAD's new home will be golf course in South Korean mountains |url=https://www.stripes.com/news/thaad-s-new-home-will-be-golf-course-in-south-korean-mountains-1.431721#.WMoKt8CGPos |publisher=STARS AND STRIPES}}{{Cite web |date=30 September 2016 |title=S. Korea selects golf course as new site for THAAD |url=https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20160930004900315 |website=Yonhap News Agency |last1=Kyong-Ae |first1=Choi }}{{Cite news |last=Se-jeong |first=Kim |date=2016-07-13 |title=Seongju residents vow to fight against THAAD |language=en |work=The Korea Times |url=https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2016/07/117_209326.html |access-date=2018-09-18}}

On 6 March 2017, two THAAD launcher trucks arrived by air transport at Osan Air Base South Korea, for a deployment.{{Cite web |last1=Johnson |first1=Alex |last2=Kube |first2=Courtney |last3=Kim |first3=Stella |date=6 March 2017 |title=U.S. Begins Shipping Controversial Anti-Missile System to South Korea |url=https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/u-s-promises-response-severe-threat-north-korean-missile-launches-n729846 |access-date=6 March 2017 |website=NBC News}}{{Cite web |date=6 March 2017 |title=THAAD arrives on the Korean Peninsula |url=https://www.usfk.mil/Media/Press-Products/Press-Releases/Article/1104306/thaad-arrives-on-the-korean-peninsula/ |website=usfk.mil}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2017/03/06/world/asia/north-korea-thaad-missile-defense-us-china.html|title=U.S. Starts Deploying Thaad Antimissile System in South Korea, After North's Tests|last=Mullany|first=Gerry|date=2017-03-06|work=The New York Times|access-date=2017-03-07|issn=0362-4331}} Earlier that day, North Korea had launched 4 missiles.{{Cite web |last=Osan AirBase |title=THAAD Deploys to Republic of Korea |website=YouTube |date=2017-03-06 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BI68rmNQWXQ |access-date=2017-03-07}} A Reuters article stated that with the THAAD defense system, a North Korean missile barrage would still pose a threat to South Korea,{{cite news|last1=Pearson|first1=James|title=Even with THAAD defense, North Korea missile barrage poses threat to South|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-northkorea-missiles-defence-analysis-idUSKBN16F0CT|publisher=Reuters|date=8 Mar 2017}} while an article in the International Journal of Space Politics & Policy said that South Korean forces already possess Patriot systems for point defense and Aegis destroyers capable of stopping ballistic missiles that may come from the north,{{cite journal |author=De Leon Petta Gomes da Costa |title=Chinese Geopolitics: Space Program Cooperation among China, Brazil, and Russia |journal=Astropolitics: The International Journal of Space Politics & Policy |issn=1477-7622 |oclc=300873391 |date=16 March 2016 |volume=14 |issue=1|doi=10.1080/14777622.2016.1148465 |pages=90–98 |bibcode=2016AstPo..14...90D|s2cid=218622093 }}{{page needed|date=March 2017}}{{original research inline|date=March 2017}} in a three-layer antimissile defense for South Korea. On 16 March 2017, a THAAD radar arrived in South Korea.{{Cite web |last=Shim |first=Elizabeth |date=16 March 2017 |title=THAAD radar arrives in South Korea over Chinese opposition |url=https://www.upi.com/Top_News/World-News/2017/03/16/THAAD-radar-arrives-in-South-Korea-over-Chinese-opposition/7711489671159/ |access-date=21 March 2017 |website=upi.com}} The THAAD system is kept at Osan Air BaseA view of the command posts at Osan Air base: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xWqYTKsr43I 'Fight Tonight': Rare look at US defense against North Korea] access-date=2017-04-16 until the site where the system is due to be deployed is prepared, with an expected ready date of June 2017.{{cite news |last=Taylor |first=Adam |date=7 March 2017 |title=Why China is so mad about THAAD, a missile defense system aimed at deterring North Korea |newspaper=The Washington Post |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/worldviews/wp/2017/03/07/why-china-is-so-mad-about-thaad-a-missile-defense-system-aimed-at-deterring-north-korea/}} Osan Air Base has blast-hardened command posts with 3 levels of blast doors.{{rp|minute 0:45}}

By 25 April 2017, six trailers carrying the THAAD radar, interceptor launchers, communications, and support equipment entered the Seongju site.{{Cite news |last=Fifield |first=Anna |date=26 April 2017 |title=U.S. starts 'swiftly' installing controversial antimissile battery in South Korea |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/us-military-starts-installing-controversial-anti-missile-battery-in-south-korea/2017/04/25/3efe2fba-2a2a-11e7-86b7-5d31b5fdc114_story.html |access-date=26 April 2017 |newspaper=The Washington Post}}{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-northkorea-usa-idUSKBN17W04T|title=China urges all sides in North Korea standoff to 'stop irritating'...|first=Ben|last=Blanchard|newspaper=Reuters|date=4 May 2017}} On 30 April 2017, it was reported that South Korea would bear the cost of the land and facilities for THAAD, while the US will pay for operating it.{{Cite web |date=2017-04-30 |title=US won't seek South Korean money for THAAD |url=https://www.foxnews.com/world/the-latest-us-wont-seek-south-korean-money-for-thaad |access-date= |website=Fox News |language=en-US}} On 2 May 2017, Moon Sang-gyun, with the South Korean Defense Ministry, and Col. Robert Manning III, a spokesman for the U.S. military, announced that the THAAD system in Seongju is operational and "has the ability to intercept North Korean missiles and defend South Korea."{{Cite news |last=Sang-Hun |first=Choe |date=2017-05-02 |title=U.S. Antimissile System Goes Live in South Korea |language=en-US |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2017/05/02/world/asia/thaad-north-korea-missile-defense-us.html |access-date= |issn=0362-4331 |url-access=limited}}

It was reported that the system would not reach its full operational potential until later in 2017, when additional elements of the system were onsite.{{Cite web |date=2 May 2017 |title=US anti-missile system operational in South Korea |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-39775854 |website=BBC News}} On 7 June 2017 President Moon Jae-in suspended further THAAD deployment pending a review, after discovering four additional launchers had entered South Korea without the defense ministry informing him.{{cite news |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/world/2017/06/07/south-korean-president-moon-jae-suspends-thaad-deployment/102582572/ |title=South Korean President Moon Jae-in suspends further THAAD deployment |last=Maresca |first=Thomas |newspaper=USA Today |date=7 June 2017 |access-date=11 September 2017}}{{cite news |url=https://www.cnbc.com/2017/07/26/how-park-geun-hye-influences-thaad-deployment-in-south-korea.html |title=North Korea is more erratic than ever, but South Korea is in no rush for US missile defense |last=Chandran |first=Nyshka |work=CNBC |date=26 July 2017 |access-date=11 September 2017}} The 35th Air Defense Artillery Brigade (United States) has integrated THAAD into its layered defense on the Korean Peninsula,{{cite web |last=Daniell |first=Capt. Jonathon |date=13 June 2017 |title=35th ADA BDE welcomes new commander |url=https://www.army.mil/article/189286/35th_ada_bde_welcomes_new_commander |website=army.mil}} denoted Combined Task Force Defender, composed of both US and ROK personnel.

Even in the face of a North Korean ICBM test on 4 July 2017, which newly threatens Alaska, a Kodiak, Alaska-based THAAD interceptor test (FTT-18){{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-northkorea-missiles-usa-defenses-idUSKBN19S2XQ|title=Exclusive: U.S. plans to test THAAD missile defenses as North Korea...|first=Phil|last=Stewart|newspaper=Reuters|date=8 July 2017}} against a simulated attack by an Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile had long been planned.{{cite web |last1=Starr |first1=Barbara |last2=Cohen |first2=Zachary |date=7 July 2017 |title=US to test THAAD missile defense system |url=http://www.cnn.com/2017/07/07/politics/us-thaad-missile-defense-test/index.html |publisher=CNN}} FTT-18 was successfully completed by Battery A-2 THAAD (Battery A, 2nd Air Defense Artillery Regiment, Terminal High Altitude Area Defense){{usurped|1=[https://web.archive.org/web/20180813112444/http://fortblissbugle.com/2017/07july/072017/pdf/072017part1a.pdf A-2 THAAD successfully intercepts missile target Fort Bliss Bugle (20 July 2017)]}} access-date=2017-07-20 of the 11th Air Defense Artillery Brigade (United States) on 11 July 2017. The soldiers used the procedures of an actual combat scenario and were not aware of the IRBM's launch time.

Also in 2017 another Kodiak launch of a THAAD interceptor was scheduled in July, in preparation for a possible ICBM test by North Korea.{{cite web|url=http://www.cnn.com/2017/07/25/politics/coast-guard-alaska-missile-notice/?iid=ob_lockedrail_bottomlist|title=Coast Guard gives notice: Missile launch expected in Alaska|first=Madison |last=Park|date=25 July 2017|publisher=CNN}} On 28 July 2017 North Korea launched a test ICBM capable of reaching Los Angeles.{{Cite web |last1=Ali |first1=Idrees |last2=Kim |first2=Jack |date=30 July 2017 |title=North Korea claims all of U.S. in strike range as Trump says China has done "nothing" |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-northkorea-missiles-idUSKBN1AD1ZB/ |website=Reuters}} In response, President Moon Jae-in called for deployment of the four remaining THAAD launchers which were put on hold when he came to power.{{Cite web |last=Kim |first=Jack |date=28 July 2017 |editor-last=Stonestreet |editor-first=John |title=South Korea's Moon orders talks with U.S. to deploy more THAAD units after North Korea ICBM test |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-northkorea-missiles-thaad-idUSKBN1AD2ES/ |website=Reuters}}{{Cite web |last1=Oliphant |first1=James |last2=Shepherd |first2=Christian |date=8 September 2017 |title=Trump - 'Sad day' for North Korea if U.S. takes military action |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-northkorea-missiles-system/south-korea-deploys-anti-missile-system-as-u-s-seeks-tough-north-korea-sanctions-idUSKCN1BI07P/ |website=Reuters}}

Lee Jong-kul, of South Korean President Moon Jae-in's Democratic Party of Korea stated "The nuclear and missile capabilities of North Korea…have been upgraded to pose serious threats; the international cooperation system to keep the North in check has been nullified...", citing tensions over the U.S. deployment of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense anti-missile system in South Korea.Burton, John. (26 July 2017) [https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/opinion/2017/07/396_233687.html "Moon's nuclear option"] The Korea Times (a sister publication of Hankook Ilbo 한국일보)] Quote: Absent a North Korean response to the request for de-nuclearization talks, South Korea has mooted its nuclear options: "If North Korea continues to conduct nuclear weapon and missile tests while the North Korean nuclear negotiations are sluggish, South Korea should decide whether to break the principle of denuclearization and start developing nuclear weapons," —Lee Jong-kul.{{Cite web |last=Lockie |first=Alex |date=27 July 2017 |title=China holds live-fire aircraft carrier drill, builds massive border force as North Korean missile test looms |url=https://www.businessinsider.com/north-korea-missile-test-china-aricraft-carrier-drill-2017-7 |access-date= |website=Business Insider |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=Lockie |first=Alex |date=25 July 2017 |title=China's army looks like it's getting ready for something big to go down in North Korea |url=https://www.businessinsider.com/chinas-army-north-korea-border-force-2017-7 |access-date= |website=Business Insider |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=Lockie |first=Alex |date=16 March 2017 |title=How China could stop a US strike on North Korea — without starting World War III |url=https://www.businessinsider.com/china-response-us-first-strike-north-korea-2017-3 |access-date= |website=Business Insider |language=en-US}}{{Cite news |last=Taylor |first=Adam |date=2021-12-01 |title=Analysis {{!}} The inevitability of North Korea's nuclear weapons |language=en-US |newspaper=Washington Post |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/worldviews/wp/2017/07/28/the-inevitability-of-north-koreas-nuclear-weapons/ |access-date= |issn=0190-8286}} The Atlantic Council, in the June 2017 memorandum "Eliminating the Growing Threat Posed by North Korean Nuclear Weapons" to President Trump, recommended a checklist of actions, including the following declarations to North Korea.{{Cite news |last1=Sang-Hun |first1=Choe |last2=Sanger |first2=David E. |date=2017-07-29 |title=After North Korea Test, South Korea Pushes to Build Up Its Own Missiles |language=en-US |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2017/07/29/world/asia/us-south-korea-north-korea-missile-test.html |access-date= |issn=0362-4331}}

• No use of WMDs, or it will result in a unified Korea under Seoul after the North's assured destruction.
• No export of nuclear equipment or fissile material; it will be intercepted, and the US will respond.
• No missile or missile test aimed at ROK (South Korea), Japan, or the US; it can then be shot down or pre-empted.Pavel, Barry and Robert A. Manning (27 June 2017) [http://www.publications.atlanticcouncil.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Rolling-Back-the-Growing-North-Korean-Threat-web-0627.pdf "Eliminating the Growing Threat Posed by North Korean Nuclear Weapons"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170729214056/http://www.publications.atlanticcouncil.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Rolling-Back-the-Growing-North-Korean-Threat-web-0627.pdf |date=29 July 2017 }} (pdf). The Atlantic Council

On 30 July 2017, a Kodiak-sited THAAD interceptor shot down an MRBM which launched over the Pacific Ocean, the 15th successful test.[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=afIXoFH6RoI (30 July 2017) US military hits target missile in THAAD interceptor test] Interception at minute 1:04 of 1:20 video clip duration The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) director emphasized the data collection from the intercept, which enhances the modelling and scenario simulation capabilities of the MDA.{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-missiles-idUSKBN1AF0HV|title=U.S. THAAD missile hits test target amid growing pressure from...|first=Sarah N.|last=Lynch|newspaper=Reuters|date=30 July 2017}} John Schilling estimates the current accuracy of the North's Hwasong-14 as poor at the mooted ranges which threaten US cities,{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-northkorea-missiles-usa-assessment-idUSKBN1AG2J4|title=North Korea can hit most of United States: U.S. officials|first=Idrees|last=Ali|newspaper=Reuters|date=August 2017}} which would require more testing{{Cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2017/07/31/world/asia/north-korea-missile-test-video.html|title=Success of North Korean Missile Test Is Thrown Into Question|first1=William J.|last1=Broad|first2=David E.|last2=Sanger|newspaper=The New York Times|date=31 July 2017}}[https://www3.nhk.or.jp/news/special/northkorea_provocation/embed/northkorea_provocation_movie_185.html Payload Breakup Video: nhk static camera setup on Hokkaido island] 26-second video clip{{cite web |last=Elleman |first=Michael |date=31 July 2017 |title=Video Casts Doubt on North Korea's Ability to Field an ICBM Re-entry Vehicle |url=http://www.38north.org/2017/07/melleman073117/ |website=38 North}} to prove its accuracy.{{cite web |last=Schilling |first=John |date=10 July 2017 |title=What is True and Not True About North Korea's Hwasong-14 ICBM: A Technical Evaluation |url=https://www.38north.org/2017/07/jschilling071017/ |website=38 North}}

In August 2017, The New York Times reviewed the anti-missile options that are available to counter a planned salvo of four Hwasong-12 missiles, were they to be launched in mid-August 2017 from the North, and aimed to land just outside the territorial waters of Guam,{{Cite news |last=Doyle |first=Gerry |date=2017-08-11 |title=If Missiles Are Headed to Guam, Here Is What Could Stop Them |language=en-US |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2017/08/11/world/asia/guam-north-korea-missile-defense.html |access-date= |issn=0362-4331}} a distance of {{convert|2100|mi|km}}, flying at altitudes exceeding {{convert|60|mi|km|sigfig=1}}, in a flight of 1,065 seconds (18 minutes).{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-northkorea-missiles-kcna-idUSKBN1AP2P5|title=North Korea will develop Guam strike plan by mid-August: KCNA|first=Christine|last=Kim|newspaper=Reuters|date=9 August 2017}} These options for the missile defense of South Korea include "sea-based, Patriots and THAAD" according to General John E. Hyten, commander of U.S. Strategic Command.{{Cite web |last=Pellerin |first=Cheryl |date=24 August 2017 |title=U.S., South Korean Military Leaders Reinforce Alliance |url=https://www.defense.gov/News/News-Stories/Article/Article/1288096/us-south-korean-military-leaders-reinforce-alliance/ |website=defense.gov}}

On 2 September 2017, the North Korean news agency KCNA released a photograph of an elongated payload,{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-northkorea-nuclear/north-korea-says-it-has-developed-more-advanced-hydrogen-bomb-kcna-idUSKCN1BD0VW|title=Trump says U.S. not 'putting up with' North Korea's actions|first=Jeff|last=Mason|newspaper=Reuters|date=7 September 2017}} intended to fit in the warhead of one of its missiles.{{cite web |last=Brumfiel |first=Geoff |date=3 September 2017 |title=Here Are The Facts About North Korea's Nuclear Test |url=https://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2017/09/03/548262043/here-are-the-facts-about-north-koreas-nuclear-test |website=NPR.org}} On 3 September 2017 both Japan's Foreign Ministry and the South Korean Joint Chiefs announced the detection of a magnitude 6.3 seismic event, centered near Punggye-ri, which is North Korea's underground nuclear test site.[http://www.armscontrolwonk.com/archive/1203852/sar-image-of-punggye-ri/ Jeffrey Lewis (13 September 2017) SAR image of Punggye-ri] Note especially the 'before and after' comparison of Mount Mantap, a subsidence of several meters spread over 85 acres, in the grey-scale gif which superimposed images of 26 August and 6 September 2017. Japan's Foreign Ministry has concluded that the event was the North's sixth nuclear test.{{cite web|url=http://www.cnn.com/2017/09/03/asia/north-korea-nuclear-test/index.html|title=Nuclear test conducted by North Korea, country claims|author1=Joshua Berlinger |author2=Taehoon Lee|date=3 September 2017|publisher=CNN}}

Choe Sang-hun of the New York Times reports that the test was a major embarrassment for China's Paramount leader Xi Jinping, who was hosting a BRICS summit (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) in Xiamen, China. Cheng Xiaohe, an expert on North Korea at China's Renmin University, said the timing of the test appears to be deliberate.{{Cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2017/09/03/world/asia/north-korea-tremor-possible-6th-nuclear-test.html|title=North Korean Nuclear Test Draws U.S. Warning of 'Massive Military Response'|first1=David E.|last1=Sanger|first2=Choe|last2=Sang-Hun|newspaper=The New York Times|date=2 September 2017}} China's Foreign Ministry urged the North to "stop taking wrong actions",{{cite web|url=http://www.cnn.com/2017/09/03/asia/north-korea-nuclear-test-live-updates/index.html|title=Nuclear test in North Korea: Live updates|first=Lauren |last=Said-Moorhouse|date=3 September 2017|publisher=CNN}} and agreed that further UN actions are needed to resolve the impending crisis.{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-northkorea-missiles-system/china-agrees-more-u-n-actions-needed-against-north-korea-after-nuclear-test-idUSKCN1BI07P|title=Trump: 'Sad day' for North Korea if U.S. takes military action|first=James|last=Oliphant|newspaper=Reuters|date=8 September 2017}} By creating a thermonuclear-capable payload for at least one of its missiles,{{cite web |last1=Kim |first1=Stella |last2=Helsel |first2=Phil |last3=Bruton |first3=F. Brinley |last4=Silva |first4=Daniella |date=4 September 2017 |title=North Korea says it tested hydrogen bomb that can fit in intercontinental missile |url=https://www.nbcnews.com/news/north-korea/5-1-magnitude-tremor-recorded-north-korea-could-be-new-n798376 |website=NBC News}} the North has created a need for THAAD, which is capable of intercepting ICBM threats at the lower altitudes and ranges estimated for a Hwasong-14 ICBM subjected to the load of a heavier warhead needed to carry a thermonuclear weapon.

In October 2017, Battery D, 2nd Air Defense Artillery Regiment, Terminal High Altitude Area Defense, reflagged with the 35th Air Defense Artillery Brigade in preparation for a permanent change of station to South Korea.{{cite web |last=Daniell |first=Capt. Jonathon |date=20 October 2017 |title=THAAD battery reflags to align with 35th ADA Brigade in South Korea |url=https://www.army.mil/article/195686/thaad_battery_reflags_to_align_with_35th_ada_brigade_in_south_korea |website=army.mil}} In the interim before THAAD D-2's permanent transfer to South Korea with their families, THAAD Battery A-4 will deploy to South Korea.

The South Korean decision to deploy THAAD to protect itself against North Korea caused backlash and retaliation measures from China.{{cite web |last=Patranobis |first=Sutirtho |date=13 January 2017 |title=China, Russia vow to deploy measures against US missiles in South Korea |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/china-russia-vow-to-deploy-measures-against-us-missiles-in-south-korea/story-LiugES68RAlGEtTlGCGVSI.html |website=Hindustan Times}}{{Cite journal|last= Lee |first=Kim Min Tayler'|date=9 January 2016|title=THAAD: Missile defense or diplomatic challenge?|journal=Culture Mandala: The Bulletin of the Centre for East-West Cultural and Economic Studies|volume=12 |issue=1|pages=Article 5|url=https://epublications.bond.edu.au/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1154&context=cm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170729023244/https://epublications.bond.edu.au/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1154&context=cm|archive-date=2017-07-29}}{{cite web|url=https://www.cnbc.com/2017/03/17/thaad-anti-missile-system-makes-china-lash-out-at-south-korea.html|title=China lashes out as South Korea puts an American anti-missile system in place|first=Seema|last=Mody|website=CNBC|date=28 April 2017}}

On 30 October 2017, South Korea and China agreed to normalize relations, previously damaged due to the THAAD deployment.{{cite news|url=https://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-northkorea-missiles-southkorea/south-korea-china-seek-to-mend-relations-after-thaad-fallout-idUKKBN1D003C|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171031051915/http://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-northkorea-missiles-southkorea/south-korea-china-seek-to-mend-relations-after-thaad-fallout-idUKKBN1D003C|url-status=dead|archive-date=31 October 2017|title=China, South Korea agree to mend ties after THAAD standoff|first=Christine|last=Kim|newspaper=Reuters|date=31 October 2017}}

According to U.S. officials the AN/TPY-2 radar was deployed at Turkey's Kürecik Air Force base.[https://archive.today/20130619211352/http://www.defensenews.com/article/20120130/DEFREG04/301300013/U-S-Maintains-Full-Control-Turkish-Based-Radar "U.S. Maintains Full Control of Turkish-Based Radar"] Defense News, 30 January 2012 The radar was activated in January 2012.{{Cite web |last=Demirtas |first=Serkan |date=24 December 2011 |title=NATO Activates Radar in Turkey Next Week |url=http://www.turkishweekly.net/news/128691/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140202201212/http://www.turkishweekly.net/news/128691/ |archive-date=2 February 2014 |website=Turkish Weekly}}

In December 2011, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) signed a deal to purchase the missile defense system.{{Cite web |date=30 December 2011 |title=U.S., UAE reach deal for missile-defense system |url=https://www.cnn.com/2011/12/30/us/uae-defense-system/index.html |website=CNN |language=en}} The United Arab Emirates (UAE) graduated its first two THAAD unit classes at Fort Bliss in 2015 and 2016.{{usurped|1=[https://web.archive.org/web/20160701232647/http://fortblissbugle.com/uae-graduates-second-class-of-thaad-air-defenders/ UAE graduates second class of THAAD air defenders]}} Its first live-fire exercises with Patriot missiles took place in 2014.

On 17 January 2022, THAAD made its first real-world intercept against an incoming Houthi ballistic missile in the UAE.

File:SM 3 Block IIA launched from the Aegis Ashore Missile Defense Test Complex at Hawaii.jpg

In June 2009, the United States deployed a THAAD unit to Hawaii, along with the SBX sea-based radar, to defend against a possible North Korean launch targeting the archipelago.{{cite web|last= Gienger |first= Viola |url= https://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601087&sid=aOrc17s0Mz7g |title= Gates Orders Measures Against North Korea Missile (Update2) |publisher= Bloomberg |date=18 June 2009 |access-date=24 January 2011}}

In April 2013, the United States declared that Alpha Battery, 4th Air Defense Artillery Regiment (A-4), would be deployed to Guam to defend against a possible North Korean IRBM attack targeting the island.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-22021832 |title=US to move missiles to Guam after North Korea threats |publisher=BBC |date=3 April 2013 |access-date=3 April 2013}}{{cite web |author=Burge, David |date=9 April 2013 |title=100 bound for Guam: Fort Bliss THAAD unit readies for historic mission |url=http://www.elpasotimes.com/news/ci_22983471/100-bound-guam |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130629030656/http://www.elpasotimes.com/news/ci_22983471/100-bound-guam |archive-date=29 June 2013 |access-date=12 April 2013 |website=El Paso Times}} In March 2014, Alpha Battery, 2nd ADA RGT (A-2), did a change of responsibility with A-4 and took over the Defense of Guam Mission. After a successful 12-month deployment by A-4, Delta 2 (D-2) took its place for a 12-month deployment. In 2018-2019 Echo Battery, 3rd ADA Regiment (E-3) deployed to Guam.

File:THAAD missile launch on Wake Island.jpg

In November 2015, a THAAD system was a key component of Campaign Fierce Sentry Flight Test Operational-02 Event 2 (FTO-02 E2), a complex $230 million missile defense system test event conducted at Wake Island and the surrounding ocean areas.{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E7ErnJU_ghE|title=2015 THAAD FTO2 Event2a|website=YouTube|date=5 November 2015 |access-date=14 July 2016}} The objective was to test the ability of the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense and THAAD Weapon Systems to defeat a raid of three near-simultaneous air and missile targets, consisting of one medium-range ballistic missile, one short-range ballistic missile and one cruise missile target. During the test, a THAAD system on Wake Island detected and destroyed a short-range target simulating a short-range ballistic missile{{rp|intercepts @1:13 & 3:12}} that was launched by parachute ejected from a C-17 transport aircraft. At the same time, the THAAD system and the USS John Paul Jones guided missile destroyer both launched missiles to intercept a medium-range ballistic missile,{{rp|intercepts @2:50 & 3:12}} launched by parachute from a second C-17.[http://www.hookelenews.com/uss-john-paul-jones-participates-in-ballistic-missile-defense-test/ "USS John Paul Jones participates in ballistic missile defense test"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181005030918/http://www.hookelenews.com/uss-john-paul-jones-participates-in-ballistic-missile-defense-test/ |date=5 October 2018 }}, Ho'okele – Pearl Harbor – Hickam News, 6 November 2015.{{Cite web |last=Shalal |first=Andrea |date=1 November 2015 |title=U.S. completes complex test of layered missile defense system |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-missile-defense-idUSKCN0SQ2GR20151102/#A5FPzTc4GoPTGuvo.99 |website=Reuters}}

By March 2016, Army Space and Missile Defense Command was considering THAAD deployments to Europe with EUCOM and the Middle East with CENTCOM.{{Cite web |last=Judson |first=Jen |date=22 March 2016 |title=Army Weighing THAAD Deployments in Europe, Middle East |url=https://www.defensenews.com/land/2016/03/22/army-weighing-thaad-deployments-in-europe-middle-east/ |website=Defense News}}

In November 2015, Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani said he would consider the U.S. deploying the THAAD in Japan to counter the threat of North Korean ballistic missiles.[http://armyrecognition.com/november_2015_global_defense_security_news_uk/japan_is_considering_deployement_of_us_missile_defense_system_including_the_thaad_42411153.html Japan is considering deployment of US missile defense system including the THAAD] – Armyrecognition.com, 24 November 2015 By October 2016, Japan was considering procuring either THAAD or Aegis Ashore to add a new missile defense layer.[https://www.reuters.com/article/us-japan-northkorea-missiles-idUSKBN12H092 "Japan may accelerate missile defense upgrades in wake of North Korean tests: sources"]. Reuters.com, 17 October 2016 In May 2017 it was reported that Japan government officials now favor the Aegis Ashore system as it comes with a wider coverage area, which would mean fewer units needed to protect Japan, and it is also cheaper.{{Cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-japan-northkorea-missiles-idUSKBN18909T|title=Japan favors Aegis Ashore over THAAD to boost missile defense: sources|date=13 May 2017|work=Reuters|access-date=2017-08-09}}

At the Center for a New American Security 2017 conference, citing publicly available sources and simulations of strikes against US bases in Asia,[https://www.cnas.org/events/cnas-2017-annual-conference Shugart and Gonzalez (28 June 2017) First Strike: China's Missile Threat to U.S. Bases in Asia]. Center for a New American Security two Navy Fellows, Commanders Shugart and Gonzalez, USN noted that two more Patriot batteries, two more Aegis ships, and five more THAAD batteries would counter China's published SRBM (short-range) and MRBM (medium-range) capabilities against Japan.{{Cite web |last=Freedberg Jr |first=Sydney J |date=28 June 2017 |title=Chinese Missiles Can Wipe Out US Bases In Japan: Aegis, THAAD Can Stop Em |url=https://breakingdefense.com/2017/06/chinese-missiles-can-wipe-out-us-bases-in-japan-aegis-thaad-can-stop-em/ |website=Breaking Defense}}

Russia has opposed the missile acquisitions{{Cite web |last=Kurtenbach |first=Elaine |title=Russia says US missile systems in Asia a risk to regional security |url=http://www.timesofisrael.com/russia-says-us-missile-systems-in-asia-a-risk-to-regional-security/ |access-date=2022-03-31 |website=Times of Israel |language=en-US}} and fears that the US will have access to the management of Aegis Ashore missile defense complexes after their deployment in Japan. "We do not know of any cases anywhere in the world when the United States deployed its weapons and transferred control over them to the country in whose territory it all happened. I very much doubt that they will make an exception and in this case," concluded the Russian Foreign Minister.{{cite web |date=15 January 2018 |title=МИД РФ выразил опасения в связи с возможным контролем США над ПРО в Японии |url=http://www.interfax.ru/russia/595456 |website=Interfax}}{{discuss}}

In 2020, Japan suspended plans to acquire the Aegis Ashore system.{{cite web |url=https://www.airuniversity.af.edu/JIPA/Display/Article/2361398/japan-cancels-aegis-ashore-reasons-consequences-and-international-implications/ |title=Japan Cancels Aegis Ashore: Reasons, Consequences, and International Implications |last1=Unbehauen |first1=Michael |last2=Decker |first2=Christian |date=2020-09-25 |website=Journal of Indo-Pacific Affairs |access-date=2024-07-07 |quote=...Japan’s reversal on the Aegis Ashore sites may indicate a larger shift in defense priorities for the country and potentially signal a transitional trend with implications beyond Japan and the Indo-Pacific region.}} The Japanese government said that they were concerned about environmental issues caused by the system dropping spent boosters.{{cite web |url=https://thediplomat.com/2020/06/japan-suspends-aegis-ashore-missile-defense-plans-what-happens-now/ |title=Japan Suspends Aegis Ashore Missile Defense Plans. What Happens Now? |last=Panda |first=Ankit |date=2020-06-23 |website=The Diplomat |access-date=2024-07-07 |quote=...according to the Japanese government, the primary reason for not proceeding with deployment at this time pertains to environmental concerns: specifically, the matter of spent boosters from Standard Missile 3 interceptor missiles potentially dropping over inhabited territory.}} Local citizens of the areas chosen to place the system also protested the acquisition, saying that such placement would guarantee strikes on their homes during wartime.{{cite web |url=https://thediplomat.com/2020/06/japan-suspends-aegis-ashore-missile-defense-plans-what-happens-now/ |title=Japan Suspends Aegis Ashore Missile Defense Plans. What Happens Now? |last=Panda |first=Ankit |date=2020-06-23 |website=The Diplomat |access-date=2024-07-07 |quote=...the Japanese government has been dealing with fierce local opposition to the deployment of the sites. The candidate sites in Akita and Yamaguchi prefectures weren’t too popular with locals, who had concerns that the sites would all but ensure that their homes would be high-value targets for North Korean missiles in a conflict.}} {{As of|2020}} the Japanese government had not made it clear whether or not they would re-evaluate purchasing THAAD systems.{{cite web |url=https://thediplomat.com/2020/06/japan-suspends-aegis-ashore-missile-defense-plans-what-happens-now/ |title=Japan Suspends Aegis Ashore Missile Defense Plans. What Happens Now? |last=Panda |first=Ankit |date=2020-06-23 |website=The Diplomat|quote=It's possible that Tokyo may revisit the option to procure THAAD, but cost was one factor in the Aegis Ashore suspension too. Given that the sticker price for the six THAAD batteries was greater than that for two Aegis Ashore sites back in the 2017 evaluations, it's unlikely that Tokyo will go this way.}}

In May 2013, Oman announced a deal for the acquisition of the THAAD air defense system.{{Cite web |date=27 May 2013 |title=Sultanate of Oman to buy the air defense missile system THAAD from United States |url=https://www.armyrecognition.com/may_2013_news_defence_army_military_industry_uk/sultanate_of_oman_to_buy_the_air_defense_missile_system_thaad_from_united_states_2705134.html |website=Army Recognition |access-date=3 January 2024 |archive-date=8 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221208060103/https://www.armyrecognition.com/may_2013_news_defence_army_military_industry_uk/sultanate_of_oman_to_buy_the_air_defense_missile_system_thaad_from_united_states_2705134.html |url-status=dead }} However, a sale has not been announced.{{cite web |title=Oman: Politics, Security, and U.S. Policy |url=https://sgp.fas.org/crs/mideast/RS21534.pdf |publisher=Congressional Research Service |date=1 June 2022}}

In October 2017, the US reached a deal to provide Saudi Arabia with THAAD, in a deal worth $15 billion.{{Cite news |date=2017-10-06 |title=Thaad: US to sell $15bn missile defence to Saudi Arabia |language=en-GB |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-41532889}} The deal included seven fire units, each with a Raytheon AN/TPY-2 radar, two mobile tactical stations (with two spares for a total of 16), and six launchers (with two spares for a total of 44), and 360 interceptor missiles.{{cite web |last=Binnie |first=Jeremy |date=9 October 2017 |title=Saudi THAAD sale approved |url=http://www.janes.com/article/74713/saudi-thaad-sale-approved |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171011181231/http://www.janes.com/article/74713/saudi-thaad-sale-approved |archive-date=11 October 2017 |website=Janes.com}}

{{see also|Cross-Strait relations}}

In 2017, a Hong Kong–based media report claimed that THAAD could be deployed in Taiwan to intercept People's Republic of China missiles.{{Cite news |last=Everington |first=Keoni |date=2017-02-15 |title=THAAD may be deployed in Taiwan |work=Taiwan News |url=http://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/3095284|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170215064959/http://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/3095284|url-status=dead|archive-date=15 February 2017}} However, Taiwan's Foreign Minister, David Lee, said he was unaware of any talks with the US about possible deployment. Local military experts said that it was neither necessary nor affordable for Taiwan to deploy THAAD because China is threatening Taiwan with short-range missiles, whereas THAAD is designed to shoot down medium and long-range missiles.{{cite web |last=Yeh |first=Joseph |date=10 March 2017 |title=Could Taiwan be up next in THAAD trouble? |url=http://www.chinapost.com.tw/taiwan/analysis/2017/03/10/493244/p2/Could-Taiwan.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170417064339/http://www.chinapost.com.tw/taiwan/analysis/2017/03/10/493244/p2/Could-Taiwan.htm |archive-date=17 April 2017 |website=The China Post}}

In March 2017, the Minister of National Defense, Feng Shih-kuan, said that he was firmly opposed to the deployment of a THAAD system in Taiwan. Feng's deputy minister, Cheng De-mei, during a Foreign Affairs and National Defense Committee Q&A session held in April 2017, said that Taiwan did not need a THAAD system in the short term because its US-made phased-array radar system at Hsinchu County’s Leshan base was on par with the THAAD system in terms of detection capability; this was described as being "in slight contrast with Minister of National Defense Feng Shih-kuan's last month."{{Cite news|author=Chen Wei-han|date=6 April 2017 |title=Taiwan would welcome F-35 jet sales: ministry|newspaper=Taipei Times |url=https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2017/04/06/2003668166}}

Freddy Lim urged the ministry during the same Q&A session "to procure whatever is necessary to ensure the nation’s defense capabilities, which could not be compromised due to China's pressure." Taiwan's existing early warning system, built by the manufacturer of the THAAD radar, can serve to counter China's missile launches.{{Cite web |title=PAVE PAWS Radar System |url=https://www.spaceforce.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Article/2197752/pave-paws-radar-system/ |access-date=3 January 2024 |website=spaceforce.mil}}{{cite web |title=A Dossier on the Pave Paws Radar Installation on Leshan, Taiwan |url=https://fas.org/man/eprint/leshan.pdf |website=Federation of American Scientists}}

• {{ISR}}

• {{UAE}}

• {{USA}}

The US has 7 batteries of THAAD, which will expand to 8 batteries in the future.{{cite web | url=https://news.lockheedmartin.com/2022-04-21-lockheed-martin-to-produce-eighth-thaad-battery-for-the-us-government | title=Lockheed Martin to Produce Eighth THAAD Battery for the US Government }}

• United States Army
• A Battery, 2nd Air Defense Artillery Regiment (A-2 ADA)
• B Battery, 2nd Air Defense Artillery Regiment (B-2 ADA)
• D Battery, 2nd Air Defense Artillery Regiment (D-2 ADA)
• E Battery, 3rd Air Defense Artillery Regiment (E-3 ADA)
• A Battery, 4th Air Defense Artillery Regiment (A-4 ADA)
• B Battery, 62nd Air Defense Artillery Regiment (B-62 ADA)
• E Battery, 62nd Air Defense Artillery Regiment (E-62 ADA)

• Arrow (Israeli missile)
• Comparison of anti-ballistic missile systems
• {{Lwc|HQ-19}}
• {{Lwc|L-SAM}}
• {{Lwc|MIM-104 Patriot}}
• Prithvi Defence Vehicle—Indian high altitude anti-ballistic missile system
• Project Kusha, under development by India
• {{Lwc|S-300VM}}
• {{Lwc|S-500}}
• Taiwan Sky Bow Ballistic Missile Defense System

{{reflist}}

{{Commons}}

• [http://www.lockheedmartin.com/us/products/thaad.html Lockheed Martin THAAD web page]
• [https://web.archive.org/web/20090326071939/http://www.mda.mil/mdalink/html/thaad1.html MDA THAAD page]
• [https://web.archive.org/web/20011118094420/http://www.defenselink.mil/specials/missiledefense/tmd-thaad.html THAAD program details]
• [http://www.designation-systems.net/dusrm/app4/thaad.html THAAD program history] on designation-systems.net
• [https://missilethreat.csis.org/defsys/tpy-2/ TPY-2 X-band Radar] on Missile Threat CSIS site

;DEM-VAL and EMD testing

• [http://www.defenselink.mil/releases/1999/b06101999_bt287-99.html THAAD First Successful Intercept, 10 June 1999]
• [http://www.defenselink.mil/news/Aug1999/b08021999_bt358-99.html THAAD Second Successful Intercept, 2 August 1999]
• [https://web.archive.org/web/20070928013306/http://www.mda.mil/mdaLink/pdf/06fyi0085.pdf THAAD Equipment Arrives in Hawaii, 18 October 2006]
• [https://web.archive.org/web/20070928013406/http://www.mda.mil/mdaLink/pdf/07news0026.pdf Successful THAAD Radar Target Tracking Test, 8 March 2007]
• [https://web.archive.org/web/20070711232017/http://www.mda.mil/mdalink/pdf/07news0037.pdf THAAD Radar Supports Successful Aegis BMD Intercept, 22 June 2007]

{{United States Missile Defense}}

{{Lockheed Martin}}

{{United Arab Emirates–United States relations}}

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