WASHINGTON: CNN’s investigative report claims that Iran targeted several key defense systems in the region during the recent war.
According to the report, analysis of satellite imagery reveals that Iran destroyed the radar component of a modern US THAAD (Terminal High Altitude Area Defense) missile defense system deployed in Jordan during the early stages of the conflict.
The investigative piece further states that similar radar systems were struck at two different locations in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). While buildings housing the radars were hit, it remains unclear in the UAE cases whether the radar equipment itself sustained significant damage.
CNN’s analysis suggests these strikes were part of Iran’s efforts to degrade regional air defenses by targeting US-made radars critical for detecting incoming missiles and drones.
The THAAD radar at Jordan’s Muwaffaq Salti Air Base appears to have been completely destroyed, as shown in a satellite image dated March 2, 2026.
According to the analysis, accurately assessing the full extent of damage to the radar in the UAE is difficult because the radar equipment is installed inside buildings.
The report also revealed that an early warning radar system in Qatar was destroyed.
Based on the investigative analysis, Iran adopted a strategy of weakening regional air defense systems by specifically targeting communication networks, radars, and surveillance equipment.
