Washington: The US is enhancing its air and missile defense systems across the Middle East to prepare for potential Iranian retaliation should future US military actions take place, according to US defense officials.
According to Anadolu Agency, the Pentagon is deploying an additional Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery and more Patriot missile defense systems to various locations, including Jordan, Kuwait, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. These systems are being positioned where US forces are stationed. THAAD systems intercept ballistic missiles at high altitudes, while Patriot batteries are designed to counter shorter-range threats. The deployment is significant due to the limited number of operational THAAD batteries globally, and moving these systems demands extensive personnel and logistical support.
US President Donald Trump has not yet made a decision regarding military action against Iran. However, defense officials have stated that limited US strikes could occur with current forces, though a broader campaign might provoke a larger response from Iran. This potential escalation underscores the need for reinforced regional defenses to protect US personnel and allies, including Israel.
The US Navy has positioned several guided-missile destroyers in strategic locations, such as the Strait of Hormuz, the North Arabian Sea, the Red Sea near Israel, and the eastern Mediterranean. These ships are capable of intercepting aerial threats like missiles and drones.
Additional airpower, including F-15E fighter squadrons in Jordan and US F-35 aircraft, has been moved closer to the area. Electronic warfare aircraft have also been repositioned.
The emphasis on air defenses comes after last year's 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran, where heavy missile exchanges occurred. US forces played a role in defending Israel against Iranian missile and drone attacks and conducted 'Midnight Hammer,' striking three Iranian nuclear-related sites.
Iran's missile attack on Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar during the conflict, which resulted in minimal damage and no injuries, highlighted the importance of robust air defenses. US and Qatari Patriot systems intercepted most of the missiles.
Some Persian Gulf nations have expressed a desire to distance themselves from any US military action against Iran. Both Saudi Arabia and the UAE have stated they would not allow their territories to be used for attacks on Iran.
Regional governments are also ramping up their own defenses. Saudi Arabia has acquired multiple THAAD systems, with several already delivered. In January, the US military established a new coordination cell at Al Udeid Air Base to improve cooperation on air and missile defense with Gulf partners.
The Pentagon and Lockheed Martin have recently announced agreements to increase production of THAAD and Patriot interceptors. This expansion aims to enhance long-term supply but will have limited short-term impact should hostilities arise.