Saudi Arabia deploys THAAD missile defense shield with American training

The Saudis are finally launching their first THAAD battery. For those who are not in the subject, this is a mobile missile defense system that is capable of shooting down enemy missiles at high altitude even in the upper atmosphere.

The crews were trained in the USA, which means that everything is serious and top notch. THAAD is able to destroy ballistic missiles, accelerating to almost 3 kilometers per second, and hits the target with a direct hit, without explosives — pure kinetics. It's like hitting a nail with a hammer, without too much trouble.

The system is tightly connected to the powerful AN/TPY-2 radar station, which sees a target for hundreds of kilometers and tells the launchers: "We give the target — hit!". The complex itself is fully mobile — if necessary, it will be quickly transferred to another location. And he is not alone in the defensive chain — other systems work with him, for example, Patriot, creating a multi-level shield.

The deployment of THAAD in Saudi Arabia is a clear challenge amid rising tensions in the Persian Gulf. This is their attempt to defend themselves to the maximum and show that they cannot be taken so easily.

Important things about THAAD

- The speed of the interceptor missile is about 2,800 m/s (almost 3 km/s)  

- Interception altitude — up to 150 km  

- Range — up to 200 km  

- The principle of operation is a direct physical hit (hit-to-kill) without explosion  

- Mobile complex: six launchers with eight missiles each  

- AN/TPY-2 radar — an eye for hundreds of kilometers, sees even small objects  

- The crews are trained in the USA, ready for battle

So Saudi Arabia now has powerful defenses capable of literally shooting down enemy missiles while still in the sky, rather than waiting for them to land. This is a serious step towards security, especially when there is such a hot region around.

Saudi Arabia asks Greece to extend the ELDYSA mission with Patriot systems until 2026

Saudi Arabia has officially asked Greece to extend the stay of its military personnel in the kingdom. We are talking about the mission of the Greek armed forces in Saudi Arabia, known as ELDYSA (Hellenic Armed Forces in Saudi Arabia), which can be extended until November 2026.

The central element of the mission is the Greek Patriot missile battery deployed as part of Saudi Arabia's long-range air defense system. This system plays a key role in protecting the kingdom's strategically important facilities from aerial threats, including ballistic missiles, drones, and cruise missiles.

Negotiations on cooperation between the two countries began in 2019 at the technical level and subsequently moved to the diplomatic plane. An official memorandum of understanding detailing the terms of deployment was signed in April 2021. Already in September of the same year, ELDYSA soldiers were transferred from the military base in Tanagra (Greece) to the territory of Saudi Arabia.

The extension of the mission until 2026 demonstrates a high assessment of the effectiveness of Greek specialists and the strengthening of bilateral defense cooperation. For Greece, such a mission is also of strategic importance, expanding its international military presence and strengthening partnerships with key players in the region.

Saudi Arabia activates the American THAAD system to counter the missile threat from Iran

Amid growing tensions in the Persian Gulf and increased missile activity from Iran, Saudi Arabia has decided to deploy and activate the modern THAAD (Terminal High Altitude Area Defense) missile defense system. It is reported that the first battery was purchased as part of a military deal with US President Donald Trump during his first term, which also provides for the supply of six more THAAD batteries, 44 launchers and 360 interceptors.

This system, developed by Lockheed Martin Corporation, is capable of intercepting ballistic missiles at high altitude both inside and outside the atmosphere, providing reliable protection against medium and ballistic missiles. For Saudi Arabia, which is under constant threat from not only state actors but also non-state actors in the region, such as Hezbollah and the Houthis, THAAD represents an important strategic asset.

It is interesting to note that military-political cooperation between the United States and Saudi Arabia is developing against the background of long-term economic ties. The United States is the Kingdom's largest trading partner, and Saudi Arabia is the largest export market in the Middle East for American goods and technology. In recent years, Saudi Arabia has also seen an increase in investment activity in the United States, which can amount to up to $770 billion, although accurate data is difficult to verify from open sources.

The delivery of THAAD was part of a broader effort to modernize Saudi Arabia's defense capabilities, especially after numerous attacks on the country's oil infrastructure, including the famous attack on ARAMCO facilities in 2019. These events have highlighted the need to strengthen air and missile defense, as well as expand bilateral military cooperation with key allies, including the United States.

In addition, the increased use of THAAD systems is taking place against the background of statements by the Trump administration about the revision of global trade policy, which could affect many countries, but experts note that Saudi Arabia has the potential to adapt to new conditions and even find new opportunities for cooperation with the United States.

Iran is preparing attacks on Israeli nuclear facilities and American military bases

US military bases in the region

In response to large-scale attacks by the United States and Israel on Iranian nuclear facilities, Iran is preparing missile strikes on Israeli nuclear facilities, sources say. After launching airstrikes and missile attacks on Fordo, Natanz and Isfahan, Tehran intensified preparations for retaliatory measures, including launching ballistic missiles and using kamikaze drones against strategic targets in Israel.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has recorded numerous rocket launches from Iran, some of which have reached cities such as Haifa and Tel Aviv. Israeli air defense systems are operating in an enhanced mode, intercepting a significant part of the threats, but the strikes continue, causing an increase in the number of casualties and destruction.

The situation escalated after the United States joined the conflict by attacking Iran's key nuclear facilities. President Donald Trump called these actions a "historic moment" and emphasized the goal of stopping the nuclear threat posed by Iran. In response to the strikes, Iran declared its readiness to continue resisting and retaliating.

Iranian channels show a map showing US military bases in the region: in Syria, Iraq, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman and the United Arab Emirates.

Earlier, resources associated with the IRGC promised a "crushing blow" as an immediate response to possible American bombing.

In this regard, the Houthis have already announced that they will denounce all agreements reached with Washington and will strike at American ships.

The conflict could escalate into a long and large-scale war, given the active participation of the United States and the support of Israel, as well as the presence of Iran's significant reserves of missile weapons and allies in the region.

C-5M Super Galaxy makes a secret flight from Italy to Saudi Arabia — what could this mean?

C-5M Super Galaxy

On Thursday, June 19, at 22:26 eastern time, the fact of the approach of a heavy military transport aircraft C-5M Super Galaxy to the capital of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh, was recorded. The plane took off from the Aviano Air Base (Italy), known as a key logistics support point for the US Air Force in Europe and the Middle East.

Although there have been no official comments from the Pentagon yet, experts point to a likely logistical or strategic mission involving the delivery of bulky cargo, equipment, or even combat systems. The C-5M Super Galaxy is one of the most spacious and long—range transporters in the world. It is capable of transporting up to 122 tons of payload over a distance of more than 4,600 km without refueling, making it ideal for high-alert operations.

A flight to Saudi Arabia may be related to several factors:

- Increased US military presence in the region amid rising tensions between Israel and Iran;

- Support for the deployment of CENTCOM forces near a potential conflict zone;

- Delivery of missile defense components or high-tech equipment to the Allies;

- Technical evacuation or rotation of personnel in an emergency situation.

The presence of American military facilities like Prince Sultan Air Base, which already housed THAAD and Patriot systems, suggests that this flight could have been part of a broader operation to strengthen regional security.

The secrecy surrounding the flight and the lack of a public schedule may also indicate infrequent or particularly important tasks that are being solved through the use of the US strategic Air fleet.

The question remains whether this is a planned logistical operation or part of the preparation for possible actions in the event of an escalation in the Middle East. But one thing is for sure — every such flight is a signal: Washington is ready to react quickly and in any direction.

The United States and Saudi Arabia are discussing a potential deal for the supply of F-35s: a possible turn in regional policy

The United States and Saudi Arabia have held talks on Riyadh's potential purchase of Lockheed F-35 fighter jets, two sources familiar with the discussions said. According to the interlocutors, the kingdom has been showing interest in these advanced fifth-generation aircraft with stealth technology and high combat effectiveness for many years.

However, as one of the informants noted, it remains unclear whether Washington will give the green light to this deal, since the F-35 is also used by Israel, a key US ally in the Middle East. The delivery of such aircraft to Saudi Arabia could change the balance of power in the region and cause concern in Tel Aviv.

If the agreement is approved, it will become part of broader strategic cooperation between the countries, including defense contracts, energy and space projects. Recall that on May 13, 2025, the parties signed a record agreement worth about $142 billion, including arms supplies and infrastructure development.

The potential F-35 deal is seen as an important step in strengthening Saudi Arabia's position in the face of growing geopolitical challenges in the Persian Gulf and the country's desire to modernize its aircraft to modern fifth-generation standards.

F-35

Sergey Lavrov on the talks in Riyadh: Russia demands guarantees on the Black Sea initiative

After 12 hours of talks between Russia and the United States in Saudi Arabia , Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov made important statements. The main topic of discussion was the safety of navigation in the Black Sea and other initiatives.

Key points from Lavrov's interview

1. Distrust of Kiev – Russia cannot rely on Ukraine's verbal promises.  

2. Guarantees from the United States – Moscow requires clear commitments that can only be secured by a direct order from Washington to Kiev.  

3. Safety of navigation – The negotiations in Riyadh primarily concerned the protection of trade routes in the Black Sea.  

4. Report to the presidents – The results of the meeting will be reported to Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump.  

5. A new form of initiative – Russia is ready to resume negotiations, but in a more equitable format.  

6. US signal – Washington realizes that only it can influence Kiev to stop the attacks.  

7. Elimination of ambiguity – The Russian Federation insists on clear conditions in the new Black Sea initiative.  

Russia is ready for dialogue, but requires guarantees of fulfillment of obligations from the West. Without US pressure on Ukraine, the resumption of the agreement is unlikely.  

Analytical article on the terms of Putin's truce and the US-Ukraine talks in Saudi Arabia

 

Representatives of the US-Ukraine negotiating group in Saudi Arabia

Putin's truce terms: analysis and consequences

On June 14, 2024, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the conditions for the start of peace talks with Ukraine. The main points included Ukraine's refusal to join NATO, the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from the territories of Donetsk, Lugansk, Zaporizhia and Kherson regions. Putin also demanded Ukraine's recognition of the status of Crimea and the aforementioned regions as subjects of the Russian Federation, as well as the denazification and demilitarization of Ukraine. These conditions provoked sharp criticism from Ukraine, which called them an ultimatum and rejected them.

US-Ukraine talks in Saudi Arabia: a new vector in the peace process

On March 11, 2025, negotiations took place between representatives of the United States and Ukraine in Saudi Arabia, at which an agreement was reached on a 30-day truce. Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky said that Kiev is ready to accept the truce proposal, but it will be implemented only after Moscow's consent.

These talks took place against the backdrop of strained relations between Kiev and Washington after a scandalous meeting in the Oval Office, when US President Donald Trump demanded a more flexible position from Ukraine in peace negotiations. As a result, the talks in Saudi Arabia were an important step in restoring trust between the two countries.

Comparing Putin's terms and the outcome of the Saudi talks

The main difference between Putin's terms and the results of the negotiations in Saudi Arabia lies in the approach to territorial issues and the status of Ukraine. Putin insists on recognizing the annexation of Crimea and the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from the occupied territories, which Ukraine considers unacceptable. At the same time, the negotiations in Saudi Arabia suggest a more flexible approach, including the possibility of a temporary truce and further negotiations.

In addition, the United States insists that Russia also show flexibility and agree to a truce that will include all front lines, not just individual sections. However, Moscow has not yet given a clear answer to this proposal.

Influence on the international arena

The talks in Saudi Arabia demonstrated the willingness of the United States and Ukraine to engage in dialogue and find a compromise, while Putin's conditions continue to raise doubts about their realism and possible acceptance. If successful, the truce could be the first step towards a broader peace agreement that takes into account the interests of all parties. However, experience shows that any proposal for a truce can be used by Moscow and Kiev to regroup forces and continue hostilities.

The situation with the peace talks between Russia and Ukraine remains difficult and ambiguous. On the one hand, the talks in Saudi Arabia demonstrated the willingness of Ukraine and the United States to engage in dialogue and find a compromise. On the other hand, Putin's conditions continue to raise doubts about their realism and possible acceptance. In any case, Moscow's position, which remains adamant, will play a key role in achieving peace.

Underground reinforcement: Saudi Arabia modernizes missile capabilities

Satellite images reveal massive changes in Saudi Arabia's strategic infrastructure. According to the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), the kingdom has begun the creation of a new underground missile base near the city of al-Nabhaniya, which could be an important milestone in the development of national defense capabilities.

The construction of the facility, which began in 2019 and was almost completed by early 2024, demonstrates Riyadh's systematic approach to strengthening its missile program. This is not just an upgrade of infrastructure, but a fundamental change in the country's security concept.

Several key factors make this project particularly significant.:

1. Return to the construction of underground bases after a ten-year hiatus

2. Choosing a location in the central part of the country to ensure maximum security

3. Modern technologies of construction and protection of the facility

This development is taking place against the background of growing tensions in the region and the complication of the geopolitical situation. The creation of the new base is becoming part of a broader modernization process of the kingdom's armed forces.

It is particularly interesting how this step corresponds to current trends in the field of missile defense. Underground placement allows you to:

- Protect missiles from reconnaissance means

- Provide resistance to enemy attack systems

- Increase the survival rate of combat units

The modernization of existing facilities combined with the construction of new ones creates an integrated protection system that significantly increases the combat readiness of the Saudi armed forces.

This initiative is important for the region. It demonstrates Saudi Arabia's commitment to self-sufficiency in security issues and willingness to invest in long-term defense projects.

Perhaps this step is also related to Riyadh's desire to reduce dependence on external suppliers of weapons and technology. Creating your own developed infrastructure is becoming an important element of strategic sovereignty.

In the meantime, we are witnessing an example of how the countries of the Middle East are adapting to changing security conditions through the modernization of their defense capabilities. The project of an underground missile base in al-Nabhaniya may become a symbol of a new stage in the development of Saudi Arabia's military potential.

Negotiations on Ukraine in Riyadh: Russia and the United States on the threshold of dialogue

Negotiations on Ukraine should take place on February 18 in Riyadh, Kommersant writes

On Tuesday, the international arena may witness a historic event — negotiations on the Ukrainian crisis with the participation of the official Russian delegation, which will be held in the capital of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh. According to the Kommersant newspaper, the meeting will be a key attempt to resume dialogue between Moscow and Washington through the mediation of the Persian Gulf countries.

A high level of representation is expected from the American side.: Secretary of State Mark Rubio, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and Special Envoy for the Middle East Steve Witkoff will participate in the discussions. The team demonstrates the seriousness of the US intentions to find a solution to the Ukrainian conflict through diplomatic channels.

On the Russian side, according to preliminary data, the visit of Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov to the kingdom confirms the importance of the event for the Kremlin. Lavrov, known for his caution and diplomatic skill, will represent Russia's position at the talks, where the key topics will be the de-escalation of the situation in Ukraine and possible steps to stabilize the region.

The choice of Saudi Arabia as a platform for negotiations is not accidental. The Kingdom traditionally takes a neutral position in matters of major international conflicts, maintaining good relations with both Russia and the United States. In recent years, Riyadh has been actively acting as a mediator in various global disputes, using its authority in the Middle East and influence in OPEC+.

Saudi Arabia's desire to strengthen its position on the world stage by demonstrating its ability to solve complex geopolitical problems also plays a special role. This is not the first time that the kingdom has hosted important international meetings: previously, it successfully mediated the restoration of relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia, as well as organized negotiations on other regional crises.

The main goal of the upcoming talks will be to find ways to reduce tensions around Ukraine. This is an opportunity for Russia to demonstrate its willingness to engage in dialogue while protecting its interests in the region. Pressure is expected from the United States and its allies to achieve concrete results, such as the withdrawal of troops or the establishment of a ceasefire.

However, experts warn against excessive optimism. Even if the parties can agree on some technical aspects, fundamental differences over the status of the territories and the future of Ukraine may take much longer to resolve.

The Riyadh talks symbolize a new era in approaches to global crises. If the meeting ends with at least partial progress, it will be an important signal to other players in the international arena: even the most complex conflicts can be resolved through diplomacy, especially with the participation of reliable intermediaries.

At the same time, the success or failure of the negotiations will have an impact on the further actions of the parties. For Russia, this is a chance to show the world its readiness for a peaceful settlement, and for the United States, it is an opportunity to demonstrate the effectiveness of its foreign policy.

The international community will be watching developments in Riyadh with bated breath. Despite all the difficulties and contradictions, the upcoming negotiations open up new opportunities for dialogue and mutual understanding. The future of the Ukrainian crisis largely depends on how successful the efforts of all participants in this process turn out to be.

Negotiations in Saudi Arabia: A new chance for peace or the beginning of a new escalation?

Donald Trump's statements about the upcoming meeting of representatives of Ukraine, Russia and the United States in Riyadh, as well as the comments of Vice President J. D. Vance, open up new prospects for resolving the Ukrainian crisis. However, behind the words about the "end of the war" there are complex diplomatic maneuvers that can lead to both a historic breakthrough and a new wave of tension.

Trump and his approach to negotiations

Donald Trump continues to demonstrate his characteristic style of conducting international politics — striving for quick results and willingness to compromise. His decision to arrange a meeting not personally with Vladimir Putin, but through intermediaries from three countries (Ukraine, Russia, and the United States) suggests that he prefers a softer approach, avoiding direct pressure or confrontation. This can be a strategy to create a favorable atmosphere for negotiations, where each side can come up with its own terms without the risk of losing face.

However, the key question is how realistic are the expectations regarding the end of the conflict. Trump's phrase "We'll see if we can end this war" sounds optimistic, but the scale of the problem requires much more than just the desire of the parties to come to an agreement. Historical experience shows that such complex conflicts are rarely resolved quickly and painlessly.

Possible role of the United States: from mediator to participant

An interview with Vice President J. D. Vance reveals a more complex picture of the American position. Although earlier the head of the Pentagon, Pete Hegseth, ruled out sending the US military to Ukraine, Vance admits the use of both economic and military instruments of influence if negotiations fail. This ambivalent message creates uncertainty.: Who exactly determines US foreign policy — the president or the military?

This uncertainty may be part of a strategy aimed at increasing pressure on Russia. The warning about possible troop deployments and new sanctions is a powerful lever of influence that could force Moscow to take the negotiation process more seriously. However, such an approach also risks provoking further escalation, especially if Russia perceives these words as a threat.

What awaits the negotiations?

Vice President Vance stressed that the deal that could be reached "shocks a lot of people." This indicates that the United States is ready to consider options that were previously considered unacceptable. For example, issues of Ukraine's territorial integrity or security guarantees may be the subject of trade. This approach raises concerns among hardliners who believe that any concessions to Russia will weaken Kiev's position.

In addition, Vance's phrase that "all the cards are on the table" indicates Washington's readiness for a broad dialogue that includes not only the Ukrainian issue, but also general relations between the United States and Russia. This may mean that a successful agreement on Ukraine will become the basis for normalization of relations between the two countries.

The Russian perspective: The search for a new balance

It is interesting to note that Vance mentioned the need to reset relations with Russia, emphasizing that "Putin does not want to be a younger brother in relations with China." This thesis points to internal contradictions in the Russian-Chinese partnership and the possibility of using these differences to create more equal relations between Moscow and Washington.

This could be an important incentive for Russia to reach an agreement. If Moscow really wants to strengthen its independence in the international arena, it may be more open to compromises, especially if they allow it to obtain long-term benefits, such as lifting sanctions or improving the economic situation.

Risk for Ukraine

The main risk is that Ukraine's interests may become secondary in this game of big powers. If the deal is truly "shocking," it could mean significant concessions to Kiev from Western partners. For example, the issue of the status of Donbass or even Crimea can be used as an element of bargaining. This will create a difficult situation for the Ukrainian leadership: accept conditions that may be unpopular within the country, or reject them, risking losing the support of the international community.

The upcoming talks in Saudi Arabia represent a unique opportunity for all parties to move towards peace. However, the success of this process depends on many factors, including the willingness of each side to compromise, as well as the ability to maintain a balance between the interests of major players and the rights of direct participants in the conflict. If the negotiations are successful, it could be a turning point in the history of the region. However, if they fail, the consequences can be much more serious than before.