Iran Targets US THAAD Radar Systems in the Middle East
Iran's Assault on US Radar Systems
Recent reports indicate that Iran has focused its efforts on US-made radar systems associated with the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) in the Middle East, specifically targeting sites in Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Analysis of satellite imagery from various military installations in the Arabian Peninsula reveals that Iran is likely attempting to compromise air defense capabilities by attacking radars responsible for detecting incoming missiles and drones. CNN's examination of these images suggests that a radar system linked to a THAAD battery in Jordan was hit and seemingly destroyed during the early stages of the conflict. Additionally, radar systems at two locations in the UAE were also targeted, although it remains uncertain if they sustained damage.
Understanding THAAD Missile Defense Systems
The Terminal High Altitude Area Defense is an advanced missile interception system designed to neutralize ballistic missiles as they approach their targets. A vital component of this system is the AN/TPY-2 radar, which identifies incoming threats and assists in guiding interceptor missiles. This radar is crucial for launching interceptors and forming a comprehensive air defense network. Each THAAD battery comprises several components distributed across trailers, including the radar, launchers, and support vehicles. The United States operates eight THAAD batteries, while the UAE has two and Saudi Arabia operates one.
Reasons Behind Iran's Targeting of THAAD in Jordan, UAE, and Saudi Arabia
Satellite imagery suggests that Iran's strategy may involve degrading regional air defenses by attacking radar systems associated with THAAD batteries. At the Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan, the radar system for a THAAD battery appears to have been struck. An image captured on March 2, 2026, reveals debris surrounding a damaged radar at the site. Two significant craters nearby indicate multiple attempts to hit the system, which is distributed across five 40-foot trailers, all of which seem to have been destroyed or severely impacted. The radar and THAAD battery had been stationed at the base since at least mid-February and were likely struck on March 1 or 2. Prior to the conflict, satellite images showed over 50 fighter jets at the base, along with drones and transport aircraft.
In Saudi Arabia, another attack targeted a radar site near Prince Sultan Air Base, where numerous American aircraft are based. Satellite images taken on March 1 depict smoke rising from the area, and a tent used to protect the radar system was heavily charred, with debris scattered around. In the United Arab Emirates, several military installations near Ruwais and Sader experienced damage between February 28 and March 1, with vehicle sheds housing radar systems for THAAD batteries among the affected structures. Analysts note that while damaging the radar does not render the THAAD system entirely inoperable, it significantly hampers its operational capability and flexibility.
Manufacturers and Costs of THAAD
The AN/TPY-2 radar utilized by THAAD batteries is produced by Raytheon. According to the US Missile Defense Agency’s budget for 2025, the radar system is valued at just under $500 million. Experts emphasize that this equipment is not only costly but also critical, making the loss of even a single radar operationally significant. The radar is often referred to as the “heart” of a THAAD battery, as it facilitates interceptor launches and enhances the broader air defense network that identifies incoming threats.