Experts Linked THAAD Deployment to US Missile Tracking
A study revealed that THAAD radar in South Korea could track Chinese missiles targeting the United States.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Military
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On May 31, experts released findings suggesting that the deployment of the THAAD missile system on the Korean Peninsula allows for the tracking of Chinese missiles. The system can transmit this data to the early warning radar network at Clear Air Force Station in Alaska.
Why it matters
The integration of this radar into the US missile defense system creates significant foreign policy and security challenges for South Korea. Chinese military planners may also view the radar as a target, leading to potential regional instability.
The THAAD radar system has an estimated maximum detection range of 4,500 km, significantly exceeding the 600-900 km range seen in terminal mode. This enables long-distance detection capabilities for missiles passing over or launched from the region.
The players
Theodore Postol
He is an expert who co-conducted the study on the radar detection capabilities of the THAAD missile defense system.
George Lewis
He is a researcher who co-authored the report regarding the integration of the THAAD system into US missile defense networks.
Sun Jianguo
He is a Chinese Admiral who met with South Korean officials to discuss security concerns regarding the missile system deployment.
Han Min-koo
He served as the South Korean Defense Minister during discussions regarding regional military security.
The details
The radar detects the upper booster stage of a ballistic missile as it separates from the warhead, allowing data to be communicated to the US in real time. The study conducted by Theodore Postol and George Lewis highlights that the system is capable of operating in both terminal and forward-based modes.
Timeline
May 31: Experts released the study findings and officials held a summit meeting.
Political Context
The deployment is viewed as a strategic extension of the United States national missile defense system designed to monitor regional threats. Opposition groups and Chinese officials argue that such integration undermines regional security and shifts the balance of power.
Citizens in the region may face increased volatility as diplomatic tensions influence trade and economic policy. The potential for a shift in national security posture may also lead to new regulatory and military spending priorities for involved nations.
The takeaway
This report highlights the dual-use nature of missile defense systems in global intelligence gathering. Understanding these capabilities is essential for analyzing the friction between regional security and international military expansion.
Further reading
For more information on defense strategy, visit the Military section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by 한겨레신문.
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