U.S. Says Thaad Missile Shield Ready to Defend South Korea
- China has expressed opposition to anti-missile system
- Tensions are elevated over North Korea’s nuclear program
Why a U.S. Missile Defense System Is Angering China
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A U.S. missile shield deployed in South Korea against China’s objections is now technically ready for operations as tensions grow over North Korea’s nuclear program.
The Terminal High Altitude Area Defense battery set up in Seongju county more than 200 kilometers (125 miles) southeast of Seoul is able to respond to North Korean threats, South Korea’s defense ministry spokesman Moon Sang-gyun told reporters on Tuesday in Seoul. The ministry had said previously it expected the system to be fully operational by the end of the year.