This Is the System That Intercepted Iran's Missiles Over the UAE

"The UAE's missile shield includes multiple layers of defense, such as the high-altitude Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) and the lower-altitude MIM-104 Patriot. Developed by Lockheed Martin, THAAD is designed to intercept ballistic missiles during the final phase of their flight, when they descend towards their target."

"Unlike traditional air defense missiles that explode near a threat, THAAD interceptors destroy incoming missiles through direct kinetic impact, basically colliding with them at extremely high speeds in what is known as 'hit-to-kill' interception. The UAE became the first country outside the US to deploy THAAD in January 2022."

"According to the ministry, the missiles were destroyed before impact. However, debris from one interception fell in Abu Dhabi, killing one civilian. Abu Dhabi sits near several strategic military installations, including Al Dhafra Air Base, which hosts Emirati and US forces."

Following joint Israeli-US attacks on Iran, Tehran launched missile strikes across the Gulf targeting military bases in regional countries. The UAE's air defense systems intercepted several incoming ballistic missiles before impact. However, debris from one interception fell in Abu Dhabi, resulting in one civilian death near Al Dhafra Air Base. The UAE operates a layered missile defense network including THAAD and Patriot systems. THAAD, developed by Lockheed Martin, intercepts ballistic missiles during their final descent phase using kinetic impact technology. The UAE became the first non-US country to deploy THAAD in January 2022, having received the system in 2015 through a multibillion-dollar defense agreement.

Read at WIRED