Daily Current Affairs : 14-October-2024

In response to rising tensions in West Asia, especially following Iran’s missile attacks on Israel, the United States has decided to deploy the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile system to strengthen Israel’s air defense. This decision highlights the U.S. commitment to ensuring the security of its allies in the region, especially amidst the growing threats from countries like Iran.

What is THAAD?

THAAD is an advanced missile defense system designed to protect against short- to medium-range ballistic missile threats. The primary purpose of THAAD is to intercept and destroy missiles during their final flight phase, just before they reach their target. The system is highly effective due to its ability to track and neutralize missiles with high accuracy.

Key Features of THAAD:

  • Radar System: THAAD uses a powerful radar that can detect incoming missiles at long distances, giving it the ability to react quickly.
  • Kinetic Interception: Unlike traditional systems that rely on warheads, THAAD uses kinetic energy to destroy missiles. This means it intercepts and destroys missiles by colliding with them, making it a safer and more reliable defense option.
  • Range: The system can intercept missiles within a range of 150 to 200 kilometers, providing Israel with broad protection.
  • Deployment History: First deployed in 2008, THAAD complements other missile defense systems, like the Patriot missile defense, by covering a wider defense area.

THAAD’s Role in Strengthening Israel’s Security

The U.S. decision to deploy THAAD in Israel underscores the growing security concerns in the region. With increasing missile threats, especially from Iran, this system will enhance Israel’s defense capabilities, giving it a more robust shield against potential attacks.

Important Points:

  • U.S. Deployment of THAAD: The U.S. is deploying the THAAD missile defense system to bolster Israel’s defense against escalating missile threats, especially from Iran.
  • Purpose of THAAD: THAAD is designed to intercept and destroy short- to medium-range ballistic missiles during their final flight phase.
  • Key Features:
    • Radar: Uses a powerful radar to detect incoming missiles at long ranges.
    • Kinetic Interception: Destroys missiles by colliding with them, without using warheads, making it a safer option.
    • Range: Can intercept missiles within a range of 150 to 200 kilometers.
  • Deployment History: THAAD was first deployed in 2008 and complements other systems like the Patriot missile defense.
  • Contractor: Lockheed Martin is the primary contractor behind the THAAD system.
  • Strategic Importance: The deployment of THAAD enhances Israel’s security and provides stronger defense against missile threats from hostile countries like Iran.

Why In News

In response to escalating tensions in West Asia, particularly following Iran’s missile attacks on Israel, the U.S. has decided to deploy the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile system to bolster Israel’s air defense, aiming to enhance the country’s ability to counter both current and future missile threats in the region.

MCQs about U.S. Strengthens Israel’s Defense with THAAD Deployment

  1. What is the primary purpose of the THAAD missile defense system?
    A. To detect and track enemy aircraft
    B. To intercept and destroy ballistic missiles during their final flight phase
    C. To provide defense against cyber attacks
    D. To launch counter-attacks on missile threats
    Correct Answer: B. To intercept and destroy ballistic missiles during their final flight phase
    Explanation: THAAD is designed specifically to intercept and destroy short- to medium-range ballistic missiles during their terminal phase of flight, providing a last line of defense.
  2. Which company is the primary contractor behind the THAAD system?
    A. Boeing
    B. Northrop Grumman
    C. Raytheon
    D. Lockheed Martin
    Correct Answer: D. Lockheed Martin
    Explanation: Lockheed Martin is the primary contractor responsible for developing and manufacturing the THAAD missile defense system.
  3. How does the THAAD system destroy incoming missiles?
    A. By using explosive warheads
    B. By emitting electromagnetic pulses
    C. By colliding with the incoming missile using kinetic energy
    D. By launching counter missiles
    Correct Answer: C. By colliding with the incoming missile using kinetic energy
    Explanation: THAAD uses kinetic energy to destroy incoming missiles, meaning it intercepts them by colliding with them rather than relying on explosive warheads, which makes it a safer and more effective defense.
  4. What is the range of the THAAD system’s missile interception capability?
    A. 50 to 100 kilometers
    B. 100 to 150 kilometers
    C. 150 to 200 kilometers
    D. 200 to 300 kilometers
    Correct Answer: C. 150 to 200 kilometers
    Explanation: THAAD can intercept ballistic missiles within a range of 150 to 200 kilometers, providing Israel with wide-area missile defense coverage.

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