US sending additional air defense systems to Middle East - Pentagon

The US is sending a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system and additional Patriot air defense missile system battalions to the Middle East in response to recent attacks on US troops in the region. The deployments come as tensions soar during the Israel-Hamas war. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said the steps would strengthen the Department of Defense's posture in the region, bolster regional deterrence efforts, increase force protection for US forces, and assist in the defense of Israel.