The Washington Post reported that the United States was transferring components of their high-altitude THAAD missile defense system from South Korea to the Middle East. South Korean President expressed his displeasure as this system is a key element of national defense against North Korea.
The United States has not withdrawn a missile defense system from South Korea, as confirmed by an American military official on Tuesday, following reports that Washington had transferred some elements to the Middle East. The Washington Post reported last month that the United States would transfer components of their advanced THAAD high-altitude missile defense system from South Korea to the Middle East.
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung was upset by this information as the system is a pillar of national defense against North Korea, which possesses nuclear weapons. A photo released last month by the Yonhap news agency showed THAAD battery elements being dismantled in Seongju county, 200 kilometers southeast of Seoul. However, US Forces Korea commander, Xavier Brunson, stated on Tuesday that Washington had not “transferred any THAAD systems” out of the country.
28,500 American troops are stationed in South Korea. “THAAD remains currently on the Korean peninsula,” emphasized Xavier Brunson during a hearing before a Washington Senate committee. “We are sending ammunition to the Middle East, and it is currently awaiting transfer,” he added without providing further details. The THAAD system is designed to destroy medium, intermediate, or short-range ballistic missiles in their final approach phase.
Its installation in South Korea in 2017 sparked strong protests at the time from neighboring China, which viewed the system as a threat to its national security. The South Korean Ministry of Defense assured it is capable of handling threats from North Korea, even if the United States relocates some of its military assets. The United States has 28,500 troops in South Korea, according to available figures.
