Iranian missile strikes target american air defense systems across jordan saudi arabia and united arab emirates

Satellite images confirm Iranian strikes on U.S. THAAD radar systems at airbases in Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, threatening regional air defense.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 6, 2026, 10:22 AM EST

Strategic Targeting of Radar Systems

Recent Iranian military operations have focused on the destruction of U.S. manufactured THAAD missile defense components stationed in Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Analysis of new satellite imagery indicates that these strikes were specifically designed to eliminate the AN/TPY-2 radar systems produced by Raytheon. Experts note that these radars serve as the essential core of THAAD batteries by enabling the launch of interceptor missiles and maintaining the networked air defense picture for the region. The successful degradation of these systems could significantly weaken the ability of the United States and its allies to intercept incoming Iranian ballistic missiles.

Impact on Jordanian Military Facilities

In Jordan, Iranian strikes successfully hit the Muwaffaq Salti Airbase where a THAAD battery had been stationed since at least mid February. Satellite photos taken on March 2, 2026, reveal burning debris and multiple craters near the radar site. Reports suggest that it took several attempts to strike the system which is typically distributed across five trailers. Evidence from the impact site indicates that all units at the base appear to have been either destroyed or severely damaged. The timing of the strike is estimated to have occurred between March 1 and March 2 following the escalation of regional hostilities.

Escalation in Saudi Arabia and the Emirates

Saudi Arabia's Prince Sultan Airbase also sustained direct hits during the Iranian offensive. Imagery from the site shows burning debris at the specific locations housing the AN/TPY-2 radar and associated THAAD vehicles. Simultaneously, Iran targeted the Al-Ruwais Airbase in the United Arab Emirates. While a shelter and nearby buildings at the base were damaged by direct hits, it remains unclear if the radar units were positioned inside the structures at the exact moment of the strike. However, imagery from Planet Labs shows dark marks from strikes on four THAAD battery buildings near Al-Sadder, including carports used for radar storage.