Latest news with #AirDefenseForcesInstitute
Roya News
a day ago
- Business
- Roya News
Saudi Arabia activates US made THAAD missile defence system
Saudi Arabia has officially deployed its first Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system, marking a major step in the kingdom's efforts to bolster its air defense capabilities. The announcement was made by the Saudi Ministry of Defense following a formal inauguration ceremony held at the Air Defense Forces Institute in Jeddah. The US-made THAAD system is designed to intercept short- and medium-range ballistic missiles both inside and outside the Earth's atmosphere. According to Saudi officials, the deployment aims to protect vital infrastructure and strategic areas across the kingdom. The launch follows extensive testing and training programs conducted within Saudi Arabia. Riyadh is now the second Gulf country, after the United Arab Emirates, to field the advanced missile defense system. The UAE acquired its first THAAD batteries in 2011, which became operational in 2016. Qatar is also set to receive THAAD systems as part of a USD 42 billion US arms deal announced during US President Donald Trump's regional tour. The US approved the sale of THAAD to Saudi Arabia in 2019 as part of a broader USD 110 billion arms agreement signed during Trump's first term. In 2022, Saudi Arabia also struck a deal with Lockheed Martin to manufacture components for the system, including interceptor launchers and canisters, though a production start date has not been disclosed. Meanwhile, Newsweek reported that the THAAD system, currently deployed in countries including 'Israel', South Korea, Japan, and Taiwan, has faced performance issues. The magazine noted that the US depleted nearly 20 percent of its global THAAD missile stockpile while supporting 'Israel' during a recent 12-day conflict with Iran. Despite its reputation, the system has reportedly struggled to intercept missiles fired from Iran and Yemen toward occupied territories.
Saudi Gazette
2 days ago
- General
- Saudi Gazette
Saudi Royal Air Defense Force commissions first THAAD missile defense unit
Saudi Gazette report JEDDAH — The Saudi Royal Air Defense Force officially inaugurated the first unit of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile system during a ceremony held at the Air Defense Forces Institute in Jeddah, the Ministry of Defense announced. The unit was commissioned into service following the successful completion of system testing, evaluation, and field training of personnel within the Kingdom. The ceremony was attended by Lt. Gen. Mazyad Al-Amro, Commander of the Royal Saudi Air Defense Forces, who formally handed over the unit's flag to the commander of the 1st Air Defense Group, marking its operational readiness. The deployment of the first THAAD battery is part of a broader defense project aimed at boosting the Kingdom's air defense capabilities and ensuring the protection of vital strategic infrastructure and national interests. Previously, the Air Defense Forces had graduated personnel for the first and second THAAD units after they completed specialized training courses at Fort Bliss in the U.S. state of Texas.
Asharq Al-Awsat
09-04-2025
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Saudi Military Personnel Graduate from US THAAD Missile Defense Training Program
The Royal Saudi Air Defense Forces have announced the graduation of the second unit trained to operate the US-made Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile defense system. The training was completed at Fort Bliss Military Base in El Paso, Texas. This latest graduation follows the completion of training for the first unit several months ago and is part of a broader initiative to build a fully qualified Saudi operational and maintenance crew for the THAAD system- one of the world's most advanced and precise missile defense technologies. The system is considered a key pillar of Saudi Arabia's air defense capabilities. During their training, the Saudi personnel underwent an intensive program that included technical and operational instruction, combat simulation, and advanced field exercises. The course was conducted under the supervision of experts from the system's manufacturing company, in cooperation with the United States as part of ongoing military collaboration agreements between the two nations. This training initiative is aligned with the Saudi Ministry of Defense's strategic objective to enhance the operational readiness and technical proficiency of its forces through advanced and specialized training. The goal is to equip Saudi forces with the skills required for modern military operations, in line with Vision 2030's focus on military modernization and technological localization. The Royal Saudi Air Defense Forces continue to implement comprehensive plans to qualify national cadres capable of managing and operating advanced defense systems, strengthening national security and protecting Saudi airspace against potential threats. The graduation ceremony was held at Fort Bliss in the presence of Major General Abdullah Al-Rubaie, Commander of the Air Defense Forces Institute, representing Lieutenant General Mazyad Al-Amro, Commander of the Royal Saudi Air Defense Forces. The event was also attended by US counterparts and representatives from relevant training bodies.
