The US Army is set to begin training on the Minimum Engagement Package (MEP) of the eighth Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery delivered by Lockheed Martin.
The first components of the battery include three launchers and a fire control component, which will operate in conjunction with the AN/TPY-2 radar developed by Raytheon Technologies.
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The remaining system components are expected to be delivered at a later date.
The weapon system plays a crucial role in the US’ ballistic missile defence strategy. It operates within the mid-tier of missile defence, offering broader area coverage.
The addition of another THAAD battery is set to bolster the US military’s capability to counter new threats, safeguard population areas, and military resources.
Lockheed Martin vice president Dawn Golightly said: “THAAD is a combat-proven, game-changing asset for America and its allies that’s being used in-theatre to great effect right now. This eighth battery will significantly enhance the US Army’s ability to respond to the growing and evolving ballistic missile threats seen recently, ensuring the security of our country and its allies.”
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By GlobalDataSince 1987, Lockheed Martin has been the primary contractor for THAAD, playing a key role in its development, manufacturing, and integration.
The initial THAAD battery, designated A-4, was activated by the US Army in May 2008. It is deployed with Alpha Battery, 4th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 11th Air Defense Artillery Brigade.
A total of seven batteries were operational by December 2016.
In 2022, the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) contracted Lockheed Martin for the eighth THAAD battery.
THAAD is an advanced hit-to-kill missile defence system designed to intercept and neutralise ballistic missiles both within and beyond Earth’s atmosphere.
The system is claimed to have 100% flight test intercept rate, offering an essential shield against short, medium, and intermediate-range ballistic missiles.
THAAD serves as an integrated component alongside other systems such as the Navy’s Aegis missile defence system and the ground-based midcourse defence system, enhancing the overall missile defence capabilities.
The MDA requested $732m for FY2025 to “continue the development of THAAD system builds”.
In April 2025, the US Army and Lockheed Martin completed the short-range production qualification test launch of the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) from an M270A2 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) launcher.
