THAAD | Science & Technology for UPSC CSE PDF Download

Introduction

• The Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) is a missile defense system.
• It is primarily designed to intercept and destroy short and medium-range ballistic missiles.
• Its primary function is to target and eliminate these missiles during their final flight phase.

Development and Deployment

• THAAD was first proposed in 1987.
• It was eventually deployed in 2008.

Defensive Nature

• THAAD cannot be used as an offensive weapon.
• Its sole purpose is defensive in nature.

Functionality

• Intercepting Missiles: THAAD intercepts and destroys missiles.
• Final Flight Phase: It focuses on the final flight phase of incoming missiles.

Key Technology

• Powerful Radar: THAAD utilizes a powerful radar system.
• Tracking Missiles: This radar is used for tracking and monitoring incoming missiles.
• Preventing Launch: THAAD aims to destroy missiles before they are launched.

Summary

The Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) is a missile defense system developed and deployed after its proposal in 1987. Unlike offensive weapons, THAAD is solely designed for defense, with its primary function being the interception and destruction of short and medium-range ballistic missiles during their final flight phase. This is achieved through the use of a powerful radar system that tracks and eliminates missiles before they can be launched.