Saudi Arabia has activated its inaugural Terminal High Altitude Area Defence missile battery, marking a significant enhancement to the kingdom's air protection capabilities, Saudi Press Agency reported on July 3.

The showcasing of the new defence system comes weeks after the 12-day war between Iran, Israel and the US where on the final night of missile strikes by Iran hit neighbouring Qatar. 

The advanced US-manufactured system can neutralise ballistic missiles both within Earth's atmosphere and in space. Officials said the deployment strengthens protection of critical infrastructure and strategic national assets.

The Air Defence Forces Institute in Jeddah hosted an activation ceremony following comprehensive testing and personnel training programmes conducted within Saudi Arabia.

The kingdom joins the UAE as the second Gulf state to operate Thaad technology. The Emirates acquired two batteries in 2011, achieving operational status in 2016 as the first non-US nation to deploy the system.

Qatar has also secured agreements for Thaad acquisition through a $42bn US military hardware package announced during President Donald Trump's regional visit in May.

Saudi Arabia's Thaad procurement formed part of a $110bn defence agreement finalised during Trump's initial presidency, with the Pentagon confirming the sale in 2019.

Lockheed Martin will collaborate with Saudi Arabia on domestic production of interceptor launchers and storage canisters under a 2022 manufacturing agreement, though production timelines remain unspecified.

The US previously positioned two Thaad batteries in Israel during October 2024, reportedly utilising the technology throughout the recent Iran conflict spanning 12 days.