US TADS System Goes Live in Saudi Arabia Despite Operational Flaws
Saudi Arabia has deployed its first batch of American-made THAAD (Terminal high Altitude Area Defense) missile defense systems, according to the kingdom’s Defense Ministry. The proclamation was reported by webangah News Agency.
The advanced systems are designed to intercept short- and medium-range ballistic missiles.
The deployment follows training programs conducted in Saudi Arabia and was formalized during a ceremony at the Air Defense forces Research Institute in Jeddah province.
The Saudi Defense Ministry stated this move strengthens the nation’s air defense capabilities and protects strategic locations.
The growth comes as American magazine Newsweek reported Israel’s THAAD systems – which it relies on to counter missile threats from Iran and Yemen – have frequently failed to intercept projectiles fired toward occupied territories.
Newsweek further revealed that while supporting Tel Aviv during recent missile attacks, the US has depleted approximately 20% of global THAAD interceptor missile stockpiles.
The magazine noted Israeli defense systems, including THAAD and other American platforms, face mounting pressure amid escalating attacks from Yemen, Iran, and other fronts – with their effectiveness now being questioned.
