What is the detection range of the THAAD radar in terminal mode?

What is the detection range of the THAAD radar in terminal mode?

• A. 40-60 km
• B. 600-800 km
• C. 1500-2000+ km
• D. 100-200 km

Answer: (B)

In terminal mode, the THAAD radar is tuned to track a ballistic missile during its final descent, requiring solid tracking precision over a mid-range envelope. The practical detection range for this mode sits around 600–800 kilometers, which balances the need to see the threat early enough for a successful intercept with the need for high-resolution tracking as it nears the target. The longer 1500–2000+ kilometer range is typically associated with forward-based, long-range acquisition, while the very short ranges (40–60 or 100–200 kilometers) don’t provide sufficient horizon for THAAD’s terminal-phase engagement. Hence, 600–800 km best matches terminal-mode capabilities.

In terminal mode, the THAAD radar is tuned to track a ballistic missile during its final descent, requiring solid tracking precision over a mid-range envelope. The practical detection range for this mode sits around 600–800 kilometers, which balances the need to see the threat early enough for a successful intercept with the need for high-resolution tracking as it nears the target. The longer 1500–2000+ kilometer range is typically associated with forward-based, long-range acquisition, while the very short ranges (40–60 or 100–200 kilometers) don’t provide sufficient horizon for THAAD’s terminal-phase engagement. Hence, 600–800 km best matches terminal-mode capabilities.