Ballistic Missile Defense: Information on Theater High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) and Other Theater Missile Defense Systems
Abstract
THAAD is a mobile, land-based system being developed by the Department of Defense's (DOD) Ballistic Missile Defense Organization (BMDO). It is intended to counter theater ballistic missiles at high altitudes and long ranges using hit-to-kill technology. Such intercepts are deemed desirable to reduce the probability that debris and chemical or biological agents from a ballistic missile warhead will reach the ground in damaging amounts. These intercepts are to provide protection to wide areas such as small countries and population centers and to military forces dispersed in a theater of operations. The THAAD system will consist of missiles, mobile launchers, ground-based radars, a tactical operations center, and support equipment. The executive branch is currently involved in discussions in the U.S.-Soviet Standing Consultative Commission on a proposal regarding the ABM Treaty that would allow systems such as mAAD to be developed and deployed. The treaty prohibits mobile, land-based systems that can counter strategic ballistic missiles, but it does not define the characteristics of either a strategic or a theater missile. However, some theater missiles now approach the capabilities of the older, shorter range strategic missiles in terms of maximum range. As a result, the concern is that THAAD, if given the capability to counter the newer more capable theater threats, would have some capability against strategic ballistic missiles. This would have serious implications for THAAD and the ABM Treaty.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 03, 1994
- Accession Number
- ADA344952
Entities
People
- B. Hathaway
Organizations
- United States Government Accountability Office