SHOWDOWN

U.S. Successfully Tests Missile Defense System over Pacific Ocean

Amid heightened tensions with North Korea.

The U.S. conducted a successful test of its Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system with a medium-range ballistic missile, officials said. The U.S. Air Force fired the missile over the Pacific Ocean, and it was intercepted by the THAAD system, which can shoot down short-, medium-, and intermediate-range ballistic missiles. The U.S. has THAAD technology in Guam and South Korea, where it could shoot down missiles from North Korea aimed at either South Korea or the U.S., if needed. The test was conducted in order “to stay ahead of the evolving threat,” Missile Defense Agency Director Lt. Gen. Sam Greaves said.